INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
China replaced its chief trade negotiator Wang Shouwen with Li Chenggang on Wednesday, signaling a tactical shift in its high-stakes tariff
trade relationship frozen by $1.2 trillion in stalled bilateral goods trade.Li brings a technocratic edge to negotiations
law to counter United States measures
Wang, known for his uncompromising style, had clashed repeatedly with United States counterparts over what China views as coercive
tactics.China Shakes Up Trade Team as United States Tariffs Hit 245%, Names Legal Strategist Li Chenggang
(Photo Internet reproduction)Tariff levels now define the standoff
The United States maintains 145% duties on $550 billion of Chinese imports, citing unfair trade practices and fentanyl precursor flows.Last
tariffs on $185 billion of United States exports, including agriculture and machinery.Direct talks collapsed in March after United States
officials demanded China curb advanced semiconductor exports, a nonstarter for Beijing
steepest drop since 2008, while Q1 2025 GDP growth held at 5.4% amid heavy industrial subsidies.United States Treasury data shows bilateral
goods trade fell to $45 billion monthly, down 63% from pre-tariff peaks
The change suggests China will challenge United States tariffs through WTO mechanisms while tightening its own countermeasures, including
Washington lift tech sanctions on firms like Huawei and SMIC before engaging
next phase hinges on credibility
China has stockpiled 2.3 million metric tons of soybeans and 540,000 electric vehicles, hedging against supply chain ruptures.The United
States responds by reshoring 34% of critical pharmaceutical inputs since 2023
As Li takes charge, both nations brace for a conflict where tariffs are not just tools but symbols of strategic resolve.
