Wed Apr 16 05:16:13 UTC 2025: ## China Appoints New Trade Negotiator Amid US Tariff Dispute
**Beijing, April 16, 2025** – Amid escalating tariff tensions with the United States, China has appointed Li Chenggang as its new top international trade negotiator. Li replaces Wang Shouwen, who was instrumental in the 2020 US-China trade deal. The change comes as the two economic giants continue to impose reciprocal tariffs, with China facing 145% taxes on some exports to the US, while the US has levied tariffs on goods from numerous countries.
China’s economy grew by 5.4% in the first quarter of 2025, driven largely by exports. However, analysts predict a slowdown in the coming months due to the ongoing trade war. While China has retaliated with its own tariffs and emphasized its large domestic market and partnerships with Europe and other countries, experts suggest it will be challenging to fully compensate for the loss of the US market. Beijing has also tightened export controls on rare earth minerals.
Li Chenggang, formerly China’s ambassador to the World Trade Organization (WTO), brings extensive experience in international trade negotiations, including China’s WTO accession. Analysts believe his appointment may signal a shift in negotiating style, potentially favoring a more open and free-trade approach. However, ultimate direction will likely be determined by higher-ranking officials, including President Xi Jinping.
President Xi is currently touring Southeast Asia, promoting China as a stable and reliable trade partner, contrasting it with the US. He is expected to discuss a free trade agreement with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). China’s Foreign Ministry has stated that its counter-tariffs are defensive measures, and that productive dialogue with the US requires an end to what it calls “maximum pressure” tactics.
First Piper 