Trump’s trade war leaves China’s neighbors walking a fine line

Summary

Japan and South Korea are bracing for the economic impact of U.S. tariffs under President Trump's "America First" policy, as their allies seek to avoid escalating trade tensions with China. Both countries have expressed cautious optimism about direct negotiations but remain wary of involving China unless absolutely necessary, due to concerns over potential retaliation and geopolitical strategy.

Additional Summaries

China views the ongoing U.S. tariffs as an opportunity to create tension between Japan and South Korea by pressuring both countries into either complying with additional sanctions or facing escalating trade retaliations. Both Tokyo and Seoul are actively working to counter Trump's protectionist policies, with leaders expressing a desire to avoid further economic friction while exploring potential economic cooperation with China. However, Japan remains cautious about increasing its dependence on the Chinese market, as ties between the two nations have been strained by past incidents, including forced closures of stores in China following U.S.-led missile defense installations.

Japan and South Korea are facing 10 percent blanket tariffs while negotiations take place. China sees an opportunity to drive a wedge between its neighbors and their security ally in Washington. But Tokyo and Seoul are not interested — at least for now, focusing instead on convincing the U.S. to roll back the new measures.