China

The Impact of Tariffs on Small Businesses and Economic Stability The recent implementation of a staggering 145% duty on Chinese imports is more than just a headline; it’s a potential tipping point for many American businesses. Ryan Petersen, the CEO of Flexport, raised this alarming possibility during a recent episode of The Prof G Pod, asserting that this drastic measure could lead to "mass bankruptcies." His insights prompt us to ask: what happens to small businesses when the market suddenly shifts beneath their feet?…

A new chapter in the US-China trade conflict has emerged, bringing troubling news for nations engaged in commerce with both powers. Recent reports indicate that China has urged South Korean companies to halt exports of defense-related products to the United States if those products contain rare earth elements sourced from China. These rare earth metals, a collection of 17 elements from the periodic table, are essential for an array of technologies, ranging from smartphones to satellites, as well as key components for…

President William Ruto has embarked on a significant five-day state visit to China, aiming to deepen bilateral relations that promise to enhance trade, investment, and infrastructure collaboration. His journey is not just about forging new agreements; it's a strategic move to solidify Kenya's role in a rapidly changing global landscape. In a joint statement that resonated with optimism, both President Ruto and President Xi Jinping articulated their commitment to bolstering global stability. They underlined the…

Strengthening Sino-Kenyan Ties: President Ruto's State Visit to China The recent state visit to China by President William Ruto is an important milestone for Kenya, signifying deeper cooperation and a renewed commitment to enhancing diplomatic relations with one of its most significant partners. With an agenda focused on bolstering trade, investment, and infrastructure, the visit serves as a platform to finalize crucial agreements aimed at modernizing Kenya’s diplomatic infrastructure. During his five-day…

In an impassioned address in parliament last week, UK Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds did not shy away from expressing his concerns regarding Chinese company Jingye's dealings. He stressed that their actions have not reflected "good faith." "Despite our substantial offer to Jingye, their demands escalated to what I can only characterize as excessive," he asserted in the House of Commons. Back in 2020, Jingye acquired British Steel out of insolvency with a promise of ushering in a "new chapter" for steel production in…

African nations currently find themselves at a pivotal juncture, navigating complex geopolitical waters following China's recent declaration of intent to retaliate against any country that signs trade agreements with the United States “at the expense of China's interests.” This stern warning signals a possible shift in China's global economic diplomacy—a development that could have profound implications for Africa. The implications of this warning are not trivial; they arise amid the backdrop of a deepening…

In a momentous stride towards strengthening diplomatic ties, Kenyan President William Ruto is scheduled to embark on a significant state visit to China from April 22 to 26. This visit comes at the gracious invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping, as confirmed by a spokesperson from the Chinese foreign ministry. The anticipation surrounding this trip reflects not just a meeting of two national leaders, but a convergence of rich histories and mutual aspirations. Reflecting on the long-standing connection between China and…

China is unlikely to engage with the United States as long as the latter continues its "tariff numbers game," a sentiment echoed by China’s foreign ministry following the White House's announcement of potential tariffs reaching up to 245% due to China's retaliatory actions. In a recent factsheet, the White House outlined a breakdown of China's tariffs, which comprise a new reciprocal tariff of 125%, a 20% tariff aimed at tackling the fentanyl crisis, and tariffs varying from 7.5% to 100% on selected goods to counteract what…

DeepSeek Report: A Serious National Security Concern On a day filled with both intrigue and concern, the House of Representatives unveiled a damning report that has the potential to reshape the landscape of technology and national security. This report claims that DeepSeek, a prominent artificial intelligence company, is covertly funneling American user data to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). More alarmingly, it's alleged that the company is manipulating information in ways that align seamlessly with…

In the heart of Washington, D.C., the Brady Briefing Room of the White House has become a stage for significant political dialogue and decisions. On April 15, 2025, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt took to the podium, confidently addressing the media with the weight of an evolving narrative of trade relations resting on her shoulders. It was a moment that underscored the complexities of global economics and international relations. The tone was set when Leavitt relayed a crucial message from President Donald…