Bridgewater Associates maps the competing US and Chinese objectives driving the trade conflict, separating areas where compromise appears possible from deeper strategic tensions. While trade access offers common ground, competition over technology and industrial leadership could prove harder to resolve, with China targeting greater domestic sourcing in critical industries.
Mapping the Unfolding US-China Trade War
Bridgewater
Ramsen Betfarhad, Bob Prince
Article
1 Pages
Key Takeaways
Technology Competition Deepens Made in China 2025 targets 10 strategic sectors, with domestic sourcing goals rising from 40% in 2020 to 70% by 2025
Tariffs Broaden Quickly: The US imposed 25% tariffs on $34 billion of Chinese imports, with another $16 billion pending and $200 billion potentially facing 10% tariffs.
Targets Extend Forward: Of 1,333 products initially targeted under Section 301, 550 had minimal or no Chinese imports, suggesting tariffs also sought to constrain future strategic industries.