China faces growing global tariffs as nations respond to manufacturing dominance

A new report suggests that current global tariff measures against Chinese goods represent a broad international response rather than a bilateral dispute between the United States and China. The report highlights a growing convergence among diverse economies—including democracies and developing nations—to counter China’s industrial rise and manufacturing dominance.

Specific tariff measures against Chinese electric vehicles include 102 per cent in the United States, 75-125 per cent in India, 80-125 per cent in Thailand, 60 per cent in Pakistan, 65-95 per cent in Egypt, and a 200 per cent tariff on light manufactured goods in Indonesia. The report notes that China’s manufacturing output has doubled compared to its 2004 levels, which were half that of the United States.

Analysts point to several factors driving these trade responses, including state subsidies, a protected domestic market, and an undervalued currency. The report also cites concerns regarding industrial-scale intellectual property theft, cyber operations, and commercial intelligence activities.