摘要：Trump claims that this move is in line with the "protectionist measures" he supports. However, this is nothing but a manifestation

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On February 1, U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order to impose 10 percent tariff on goods imported from China and 25 percent on goods from Canada and Mexico. This act of trade Protectionism has sparked widespread and intense opposition both in the international community and within the United States.

Trump claims that this move is in line with the "protectionist measures" he supports. However, this is nothing but a manifestation of shortsightedness and self-interest. This protectionist policy, far from achieving its intended goals, will harm not only American consumers and businesses but the global economy as well, while actually strengthening China's economic position.

protectionism, the economic policy of restricting imports from other countries through methods such as tariffs or quotas, has repeatedly shown its perils throughout history. A notable example is the U.S. Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act of 1930, which imposed high tariffs on imported goods. This policy triggered a global trade war, exacerbating the Great Depression and underscoring the interconnectedness of the global economy.

The economic devastation from such measures remains a cautionary tale as protectionist strategies resurface.

The dangers of protectionism are not limited to economic history. Tariffs imposed on Chinese goods in recent times have increased costs for American consumers and businesses. The prices of electronics and furniture, for instance, have risen, eroding consumer purchasing power.

Moreover, American businesses face increased expenses for critical inputs such as steel and aluminum, reducing their competitiveness and triggering job losses. The resulting economic ripple effects include diminished profitability, reduced investments and slower overall growth, as confirmed by studies by U.S organizations such as the Peterson Institute for International Economics and the National Bureau of Economic Research.

Ironically, the U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods have strengthened China's economic standing on the global stage. By forcing Chinese companies to adapt and become more self-reliant, these tariffs have accelerated the nation's transition to a more advanced manufacturing base. The pressure has driven Chinese companies to seek new markets beyond the U.S., fostering innovation and enhancing their global competitiveness.

For instance, Chinese companies are now investing heavily in building robust domestic supply chains, reducing reliance on foreign components and strengthening their industrial foundation. Simultaneously, investments have increased in high-tech sectors like artificial intelligence, renewable energy and advanced manufacturing, positioning China as a pioneer in these emerging fields.

This shift has been amplified by the diversification of China's export markets, particularly toward Asia and Europe, reducing dependence on the U.S. The China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative is playing a crucial role in expanding trade and investment partnerships across continents, opening new opportunities for Chinese businesses.

Domestically, the Chinese government's policies such as tax incentives and infrastructure investments have helped mitigate the trade war's effects. By promoting domestic consumption through income tax cuts and social welfare programs, China has sustained economic growth despite external pressures.

The digital factory of a manufacturing enterprise in Yinchuan, northwest China's Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, August 28, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

Examples of adaptation and innovation by Chinese companies abound. Technology giant Huawei has continued its global expansion despite U.S. sanctions. China has also emerged as a global leader in the electric vehicle industry through government support and a thriving domestic market. Furthermore, China has significantly increased its investments in renewable energy technologies, solidifying its position as a major player in the global green energy transition.

While China's exports to the U.S. have declined, its overall exports remain strong, according to the International Monetary Fund. China's investments in research and development have surged in recent years, fueling significant progress in high-tech manufacturing, as highlighted by the World Bank.

Trump's new tariff war on China is a shortsighted strategy, harming not only American consumers and businesses but the global economy as well. History demonstrates that protectionist policies are counterproductive and can strengthen the very nations they aim to weaken. By accelerating China's economic development and reducing its reliance on the U.S., U.S. tariffs have bolstered China's global competitiveness.

Trade wars and tariff wars have no winners, a truth repeatedly proven by history and reality. In the tide of economic globalization, the economies of various countries are interdependent. Any attempt to maximize one's own interests through trade protection will ultimately be counterproductive.

To address these challenges and foster sustainable growth, the U.S. should instead focus on multilateral trade agreements and collaboration. Abandoning protectionist policies in favor of a more open and cooperative approach to international trade would pave the way for shared prosperity in an interconnected world.

Jianlu Bi is a current affairs commentator based in Beijing. He holds a doctoral degree in communication studies and a master's degree in international studies. His research interests include international politics, international communications and branding.

来源：中国网