Xi was always going to hit hard back.
Jan 5th
Jan 5th
Xi plans not only to respond, but to take advantage of Trump’s moves. During Trump’s first term, Beijing scrambled to react. It is determined not to repeat that. Xi is well into his preparations and has signalled as much.
Most Chinese analysts were not surprised by Trump’s election, linking his comeback to a global tide of populism and nationalism. Beijing believes it now understands Trump’s gamesmanship and can manipulate his administration.
China’s confidence is based on the conclusion — accurate or not — that China in 2025 is different from 2017, and so is the US and the world. Many Chinese argue that Xi is stronger politically and the economy is more self-reliant and resilient, even amid recent challenges.
Chinese analysts view the US economy as more fragile and American politics as deeply divided. Geopolitically, Beijing sees US influence as declining throughout the global south and Asia — and support for China’s vision as rising.
Xi is gunning for the US. Trade War 1 situation will never happen againXi has already signalled that he will treat his ties to Trump as a purely business relationship, albeit Don Corleone style. He won’t personally embrace Trump and will retaliate early and hard in order to generate leverage. Beijing in effect rejected Trump’s invitation for Xi to attend the inauguration.