US–China Trade War Challenges CCP’s ‘Symbolic Legitimacy’: Analysts

Beijing’s escalating trade fight with Washington threatens to deepen its economic woes, but backing down risks the CCP’s hold on power, according to analysts.

A Chinese paramilitary policeman stands guard outside the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Feb. 26, 2025. Pedro Pardo/AFP via Getty Images

News Analysis

China’s already sluggish economy is bracing for more challenging times, as the ruling Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has vowed not to back down from a fight with the United States on tariffs, according to economics and finance experts as well as small business owners inside and outside the country.