US-China Trade Falls 18% amid Renewed Trade Tensions

Trade between the United States and China, the world’s two largest economies, has dropped sharply, reflecting the ongoing impact of the renewed trade policies under President Donald Trump since his return to the White House in early 2025.

Chinese exports to the United States fell 18% year-on-year during the first nine months of 2025, reaching $317 billion, the lowest level in five years, according to China’s General Administration of Customs. Since 2022, exports have declined by 29%, equivalent to $131 billion.

This level is comparable to figures recorded in the first nine months of 2017, when the initial US-China trade war began, with exports totaling $309 billion. In addition, small parcel shipments dropped by 50% between April and September 2025, totaling $1.15 billion, while LCD television exports from China to the United States plunged 73% in value during Q3 2025.

The slowdown reflects escalating tensions between the two economic giants. Following Trump’s return, the US imposed tariffs exceeding 100% on Chinese goods and restricted China’s access to American technology. China responded with retaliatory tariffs and recently limited exports of rare earth metals, critical inputs for major industries.

The leaders of the two countries are expected to meet in South Korea during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit on October 31–November 1. Experts see the meeting as an opportunity to ease trade tensions and potentially restore normal economic relations between the US and China.