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Recent data shows shifts in global trade patterns due to US tariffs and China's export growth. The US trade deficit shrank slightly in November, while China’s trade surplus hit a record high, despite ongoing tariffs and trade tensions. Countries are diversifying markets and rerouting shipments amid these tensions.
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Irish Taoiseach Leo Varadkar is in China for a five-day trip, including meetings with Chinese leaders, to strengthen diplomatic and economic ties. The visit follows recent tensions over tariffs and trade disputes between China and the EU, with discussions focusing on trade issues like beef exports and dairy tariffs.
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South Korean President Lee's four-day trip to China marks his first visit since June, aiming to strengthen bilateral ties amid regional tensions. He will meet Xi Jinping to discuss security, economic cooperation, and peace efforts on the Korean Peninsula, amid ongoing US-China-Japan tensions over Taiwan and North Korea.
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British Prime Minister Keir Starmer plans a visit to Beijing next week to revive economic and diplomatic relations. The trip aims to deepen trade cooperation, especially in services, green tech, and science, despite ongoing tensions over embassy plans and global geopolitical shifts. Canada also seeks to diversify away from US reliance during this period of trade disruption.
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Canadian Foreign Minister Carney's recent trip to China aims to strengthen trade relations and promote 'strategic autonomy' as tensions with the US escalate. The trip marks a shift towards diversifying Canada's economic partnerships, amid ongoing US tariffs and geopolitical disputes.
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Keir Starmer's first UK prime ministerial visit to China in eight years aims to rebuild economic ties and foster a strategic partnership. He met Xi Jinping and secured agreements on visas and cooperation, amid criticism from US and UK opponents over security and human rights concerns. The trip signals a pragmatic shift in UK-China relations.
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German Chancellor Friedrich Merz traveled to China for a two-day visit, aiming to balance economic ties and strategic interests. He discussed trade, China's role in global conflicts, and Europe's need for independence from US and Chinese influence, amid ongoing tensions over trade imbalance and geopolitical issues.
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German Chancellor Friedrich Merz visited China, emphasizing the need for fair trade, open communication, and deepening economic ties. He raised concerns over Chinese subsidies, currency policies, and geopolitical issues, including Beijing’s support for Russia and its impact on German industry, while seeking to balance cooperation with criticism.
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On March 12, 2026, China’s National People’s Congress approved a five-year plan emphasizing technological self-reliance and economic transformation amid slowing growth. The plan targets 4.5-5% GDP growth for 2026, prioritizes AI, quantum computing, and green energy, and includes a new ethnic minorities law. It reflects China’s strategic focus on innovation and stability amid global geopolitical tensions.