Washington: As Donald Trump completes the first 100 days of his second term, his administration has intensified its focus on China, positioning it as a central element of his economic and political strategy. According to Anadolu Agency, this renewed emphasis is rooted in the belief that China significantly contributes to America's industrial decline, a narrative that resonates strongly with Trump's supporters.

Jussi Hanhimaki, a professor of international history and politics at the Geneva Graduate Institute, notes that Trump's strategy includes implementing extensive reciprocal tariffs, primarily targeting China. The Trump administration contends that these measures are designed to encourage companies to relocate manufacturing back to the United States. However, Hanhimaki argues that this approach fails to address the complex structural issues tied to globalization and technological advancements that underlie America's economic challenges.

Hanhimaki emphasizes that viewing China as a competitor is not exclusive to Trump's policies; it is a bipartisan sentiment. He points out that previous administrations, including Obama's and Biden's, have also recognized China as a significant economic and geopolitical competitor. Despite the popular appeal of Trump's aggressive stance, Hanhimaki believes that the expectation of quickly revitalizing American manufacturing through tariffs is unrealistic, given the technological advancements that have transformed the industry.

Andrea Ghiselli, a senior China expert and lecturer at the University of Exeter, highlights that China's initial response to Trump's tariffs was one of surprise. However, under Xi Jinping's leadership, China has quickly adapted, implementing retaliatory measures such as imposing high tariffs on American goods and restricting exports of rare earth elements. Ghiselli notes that while China sees the trade war as a critical challenge, it recognizes the US market's irreplaceable role in its economic growth.

Ghiselli believes that despite the public hostility, bilateral dialogue between US and Chinese officials likely continues. He warns that if Trump maintains a rigid stance, China might be forced to restructure its economic model, shifting focus from exports to domestic consumption. Such a move could signal a prolonged economic struggle between the two superpowers.