The US might pursue its threats to slap extra tariffs on buying and selling companions, for alleged participation in what Washington calls a “transshipment rip-off” to route Chinese language items to evade US tariffs. Part 301 tariff investigations into a number of Asian economies for industrial overcapacity are additionally ongoing, and any legislative problem to them will take time.
There may be additionally uncertainty over the election’s implications for US-China relations. Mr Trump’s two upcoming meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping will happen earlier than the Home reopens in January 2027, making any legislative disruption unlikely.
In any case, earlier than the Democrat-controlled Congress tries to insert itself into the connection of “constructive strategic stability”, they would wish to settle inside debates over their stance on China coverage.
But, the divided authorities in Washington shouldn’t be seen as a motive for regional governments to dial again engagement. US nationwide safety pursuits, notably over uncommon earths and provide chains, aren’t going to vary in a single day.
It’s nonetheless extra prudent to work with the US the place pursuits align and construct belief than to carry again and look forward to a brand new occupant within the White Home.
Kevin Chen is an Affiliate Analysis Fellow with the US Programme on the S Rajaratnam Faculty of Worldwide Research (RSIS), Nanyang Technological College (NTU), Singapore.
