China’s Growing Global Reach Is Already Causing Turmoil
Expect more countries to impose protectionist measures on Beijing as they grapple with the consequences of “China Speed 2.0.”
Containers and ships are seen at the port terminal in Qingdao, in China's eastern Shandong province on September 10, 2025. (Photo by AFP) / China OUT (Photo by -/AFP via Getty Images)
Source: AFP/Getty Images
It doesn’t serve China to hit back hard at trade partners imposing protectionist measures as Mexico plans to do. That won’t stop Beijing retaliating aggressively, with an eye on domestic political considerations and a desire to warn other countries from following suit.
But acting with the intention of punishing Mexico for being in cahoots with the US would ignore the fact that the country’s planned 50% tariffs targeting Chinese cars aren’t just a concession to Washington. They’re being touted by the government of President Claudia Sheinbaum as a necessary step to preserving its industrial base, which is a goal shared by other countries, even ones friendly to China.