Sat Nov 16 07:44:35 UTC 2024: ## Biden and Xi Meet Amid Looming Shadow of Trump’s Return and Escalating US-China Tensions
**Lima, Peru** – As President Joe Biden prepares to leave office, his meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Lima, Peru, takes place against a backdrop of severely strained US-China relations and the looming prospect of a significantly more confrontational approach under a second Trump presidency.
While relations between the US and China deteriorated under Biden, with trade disputes, sanctions on Chinese companies, and heightened tensions over Taiwan dominating the agenda, the potential for escalation under a Trump administration is deeply concerning. Trump’s previous term saw the initiation of a trade war with China, marked by significant tariff increases. Although a deal was reached before the end of his first term, China failed to meet its purchasing commitments.
Biden, despite the strained relationship, has attempted to maintain a level of communication and stability with Beijing. However, his administration continued and even expanded upon some Trump-era tariffs, targeting Chinese goods and technology. The US trade deficit with China remains substantial, reaching $383 billion by 2022. Further complicating matters are increased military drills by China near Taiwan, a self-ruled island claimed by Beijing. Recent US arms sales to Taiwan have only inflamed tensions. The downing of a Chinese “spy balloon” earlier this year further exemplifies the precarious nature of the relationship. The Biden administration also initiated efforts to address national security concerns surrounding TikTok, potentially banning the popular app.
Trump’s announced intention to impose blanket 60% tariffs on all Chinese imports signals a potentially drastic escalation of the trade war. His potential cabinet appointments include figures known for their hawkish stances toward China, although the inclusion of Elon Musk hints at potentially more nuanced approaches. While Trump previously increased arms sales to Taiwan and had direct communication with the Taiwanese president, his recent comments suggesting Taiwan owes the US for “protection” and accusations of chip theft suggest a less predictable path forward. Regarding TikTok, despite previously attempting a ban, Trump’s campaign rhetoric indicates a potential shift in strategy.
Experts warn that a second Trump term could bring a significant increase in trade tensions, potentially exceeding the levels seen during his first term. The future of US-China relations remains uncertain, hanging precariously on the outcome of the November election and the subsequent decisions of the next administration. The current state of affairs leaves the world bracing for potentially severe consequences, whatever the outcome.
First Piper 