US/China self-sufficiency drives could cut world GDP
Keyword(s):
Significance Some key consumer goods where the imbalance is particularly stark, including smartphones and laptops, have been left off the list. Moreover, the list will be subject to 30 days public comment. Impacts US restriction on technology transfer to China could benefit other Asian countries if manufacturers move, especially to South-east Asia. The tariffs imposed by the United States on China may be watered down, but NAFTA withdrawal is a more binary outcome. Politics will dominate US trade policy this year; fear of Chinese retaliation in swing states will drive the 'public comment' period.