Beijing: One year into President Donald Trump’s second term, many countries are strengthening their ties with China as the United States focuses more on domestic priorities and protectionist policies.
A report by Reuters says China has increased its influence in global trade and diplomacy since Trump returned to the White House in January 2025.
Several nations, including Canada, Britain and India, are deepening economic cooperation with Beijing while managing their relations with Washington more cautiously.
China recorded a record trade surplus of about 1.2 trillion dollars in 2025. Exports to regions outside the United States grew strongly, showing that China is relying less on the U.S. market.
At the same time, use of the Chinese yuan in international trade and finance has increased as some countries look for alternatives to the U.S. dollar.
In Europe, leaders are trying to balance relations between Washington and Beijing. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer visited China to improve economic ties, even as Britain remains a close ally of the United States. Canada has also shown interest in keeping trade channels with China open despite political tensions.
On climate and energy, differences between the U.S. and China are becoming clearer. The Trump administration has eased restrictions on coal and fossil fuels, while China continues to promote renewable energy such as wind and solar power. At a global forum in Davos, Chinese officials defended their wind power strategy after criticism from Trump, saying China remains committed to clean energy growth.
Recent data also show that China and India reduced the growth of emissions from electricity in 2025 because of increased use of renewable energy. In contrast, U.S. emissions rose as coal power use expanded.
Experts say the shift toward China does not mean countries fully trust Beijing. Concerns remain over trade practices, technology policies and human rights. However, many governments believe closer economic ties with China are necessary to protect their own growth at a time when U.S. policies appear uncertain.
The overall trend suggests a changing global balance. As the United States steps back from some international roles, China is moving forward to fill the space, especially in trade and climate diplomacy.