.png)
Trump Tariffs and Harris’s Hardline: The Next Chapter in U.S.-China Tensions
Kamala Harris, if elected as U.S. President, would likely continue the Biden administration's firm stance on China, extending the strained relationship.
I’m sure you’ve heard of the TikTok bill, right?
In April 2024, President Biden signed a controversial bill requiring ByteDance, TikTok’s parent company, to sell TikTok to a company not controlled by a “foreign adversary” or face a ban on all U.S. platforms due to data security concerns.
This is just one example of Biden's tough stance on China, which extends beyond TikTok, with SHEIN, a Chinese clothing company, reportedly avoiding a U.S. IPO due to fears of hostility.
Biden’s administration has also:
Imposed export controls on advanced technology,
Strengthened alliances in the Asia-Pacific,
Enacted the CHIPS Act,
Sanctioned human rights abuses,
Restricted Chinese investments,
Isolated China diplomatically through coordinated efforts with U.S. allies.
Harris has consistently portrayed China as a strategic competitor, emphasising that the U.S. must win the competition to dominate the 21st century. A President Harris would likely implement policies aimed at curbing Chinese influence, particularly in technology, trade, and military power.
Comparing Harris and Trump’s Approaches to China
Both Harris and Trump would adopt a hardline approach toward China, but strategies may differ.
Trump’s previous administration was marked by an aggressive trade war, with high tariffs on Chinese goods and rhetoric that inflamed tensions. If re-elected, Trump has indicated he would continue or escalate these measures, potentially leading to further volatile relations.
Harris would focus more on multilateral efforts and collaborating with allies to counter China’s influence, including co-ordinated economic sanctions and deeper security alliances in the Asia-Pacific. While she may not use tariffs as aggressively as Trump, Harris would likely continue to restrict China’s access to critical technologies and support U.S. manufacturers in strategic sectors.
Which Presidency Would Lead to Worse Relations with China?
From Beijing's perspective, both Harris and Trump represent challenges, but of different natures. Trump’s approach is more unilateral and confrontational, while Harris may pursue a more calculated, alliance-based strategy.
Chinese experts, like Zhao Minghao of Fudan University, see both candidates as adversaries who perceive China as a threat. Trump’s re-election might result in erratic and severe measures, while Harris’ administration could bring more predictability.
In summary, while both Trump and Harris would continue a tough stance on China, Trump's approach could lead to a more hostile relationship. Whereas Harris might pursue a longer-term containment strategy, still leading to strained relations but with less volatility.
Using This Story in Case Studies or Interview
When you come across a case study that involves an international deal, think about how much it will involve China and the US. If they have reasonable involvement in the deal, you’ve hit the jackpot! You can then expand your analysis of the case study by mentioning the incoming election and speak about how either candidate would affect the deal.
Sources:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-53476117
https://www.ft.com/content/99d3a277-3d62-4de4-a471-968fa41cfab9
https://www.china-briefing.com/news/2024-us-election-impact-on-china-trump-harris/