Part 5/8:
Industry groups are increasingly pressuring the Trump administration to reconsider these tariffs. For instance, the American Hospital Association has warned that the tariffs could disrupt access to essential medicines, creating a ripple effect that affects public health. The economic conflict serves as a backdrop to the broader geopolitical dynamics at play.
Rising Tensions in the South China Sea
Beyond trade, tensions are escalating in the South China Sea, an area where the U.S. has taken measures to counter growing Chinese influence. Recent maritime drills involving the U.S., Japan, Australia, and the Philippines signal Washington's commitment to regional security. The Philippines, a key U.S. ally, is ramping up its defense systems in response to China's maritime assertiveness.