Perception vs. reality: understanding the US-China trade war

Despite being an economic and military powerhouse, the United States (US) has started seeing itself as a victim of exploitation by other countries, particularly by China, due to its sheer size and the magnitude of its trade with the US. It was under the leadership of the US that the present international economic order was created. This article argues that this order has had pre-existing frictions, which have culminated in this trade war between the US and China. The U.S. arguments of being in a disadvantageous relationship with other countries come across as flawed and misguided when looked at in the light of current economic reality. The reasons behind the mutually harmful nature of this conflict are discussed and potential conciliatory solutions are provided.