Xi Jinping, President, China

President Xi Jinping has criticized the trade war begun by Donald Trump as threatening China’s economic independence and important role in the world. He thinks that reaching tariffs of 145% on Chinese imports, without proper negotiation, only serves to harm the global economy. He has made it clear that no parties gain from trade wars because they upset the global economy and negatively impact developing nations. The Chinese leadership criticizes the US for its unilateral actions and portrays China as working to defend trade that benefits more than just one country.

Since the conflict with the U.S. started, Xi has made self-reliance a priority and encouraged China to depend more on its economy. Under his leadership, measures have been taken to promote the manufacturing of electronics and electric vehicles, resulting in China sending less than 15 percent of its exports to the U.S. markets. Xi is aiming to increase trade ties with Southeast Asia, Latin America, and Africa by focusing on the Belt and Road project. He traveled to Vietnam, Malaysia, and Cambodia in April 2025, highlighting his efforts to attract buyers from other markets.

Xi is sticking to his position in the trade conflict to safeguard China’s pride and political system. He declined Trump’s request for direct, one-on-one talks since he is not willing to be seen as weak or to have uncertain results due to Trump’s confrontational approach to other world leaders. In response, Xi matched the U.S. tariffs by slapping 125% duties on their products and by blocking the crucial minerals they need to keep China’s industrial sector alive.

Despite issues with housing and a lack of jobs for young people, Xi believes he can direct national support towards fighting the trade war and lessen criticism of his economic policy. Since 2020, his administration has prepared by encouraging global supply chains to depend on China. Although tariffs were lowered to 30 percent for 90 days in a May 2025 deal, Xi believes the trade war is an important challenge for China’s position on the world stage.