China unexpectedly anoints new trade negotiator amid US tariff war

China has recently appointed a new trade negotiator unexpectedly, a crucial figure in potential discussions to resolve the escalating tariff conflict with the United States. The new appointee, Li Chenggang, will be taking over from the previous trade official Wang Shouwen, according to the human resources and social security ministry. Wang, a tough negotiator who had clashed with U.S. officials in the past, has been replaced by Li, a former assistant commerce minister during the first term of U.S. President Donald Trump. The reasons for this sudden change have not been clarified by the ministry. The alteration in leadership comes at a time when Beijing is taking a firm stance in response to the trade war with the U.S., initiated by Trump’s high tariffs on Chinese imports. This development occurred while President Xi Jinping was on a tour of Southeast Asia to strengthen economic ties with neighboring countries. The change has been described as abrupt and potentially disruptive, considering the escalating trade tensions and Wang’s experience in negotiating with the U.S. since the first Trump administration. The alteration in leadership could signify a strategic move by China to break the deadlock in negotiations and move towards resolving the trade dispute with the U.S. Unlike other nations that have sought bilateral agreements with Washington in response to Trump’s tariff plans, China has increased its tariffs on U.S. goods and emphasized the need for talks based on mutual respect and equality.