The imposition of tariffs altered trade flows, affected production decisions, and spurred structural adjustments, in the short term.

Continued tensions may lead to a semi-permanent decoupling between the U.S. and Chinese economies, especially in high-tech sectors, reshaping global trade and technological alliances. China is likely to deepen trade and investment ties with Global South countries and regional partners, reducing dependency on the U.S. market. The long-term impact is likely to reshape not only China’s economic but also global alignments.