#USChinaTensions If the United States begins to grant tariff benefits only to those countries that reduce trade with China, it will create a kind of economic 'cold war'. Countries will have to choose: to align with the United States or to continue cooperation with China — and neither option will be easy or safe. China's response with promises of 'decisive and mirror' measures may lead to:

• The introduction of tariffs or trade restrictions for countries that support the United States.

• Active strengthening of ties with neutral or developing countries.

• Retaliatory measures against American companies operating in China.