US President Donald Trump’s renewed tariff threats against China have been met with expected counter tariffs from Beijing, but Chinese leader Xi Jinping likely sees more than just a trade dispute. He sees an opportunity to accelerate China’s long-term goal of reshaping global economic alignments. With Mr Trump’s “America First” approach fostering uncertainty among US allies and trade partners, Beijing can position itself as a stable alternative in a world wary of Washington’s unpredictability. For years, China has been working to reduce its dependence on the American market, diversifying its trade partnerships across Africa, Latin America and Southeast Asia.

Now, as Mr Trump raises tariffs, Beijing can portray itself as the more reliable economic partner ~ one that does not wield trade restrictions as a tool of coercion. This messaging resonates particularly in Europe, where businesses are caught between their economic reliance on China and growing frustration with........

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