China Faces Growing Western Pressure Amid Trump’s Tariff Blitz

As tensions between the US and China escalate, China faces a unique set of challenges. US tariffs on Chinese goods have soared, reaching up to 245%, adding pressure both internally and externally.

While the trade war continues, China’s leadership is reevaluating its internal cohesion and border security. The focus is no longer just on tariffs but on strengthening national unity, especially among its non-Han ethnic groups.

Geopolitical Importance of China’s Borderlands

China’s vast borders stretch more than 22,000 kilometers and touch 14 countries. These borderlands are home to several ethnic groups, including Tibetans, Uyghurs, and Mongols, many of whom have a strong sense of local identity.

This local identity often contrasts with the national identity promoted by the Chinese government, which sees itself as a unified Han-majority state. With US pressure mounting, Beijing views the stability of these regions as essential to national unity.

Strengthening Border Security

China has ramped up efforts to secure its borders both politically and militarily. In December, President Xi Jinping called for increased research on the governance of border regions. He emphasized creating narratives that support China’s historical claims to these areas.

By referencing its imperial past, China seeks to legitimize its control over contested territories like Tibet and Xinjiang. This strategy positions China to resist what it perceives as Western attempts to weaken its sovereignty.

Using History to Promote Unity

Since taking office, Xi Jinping has focused heavily on history to solidify national unity. He draws on China’s Qing dynasty past to craft a narrative of long-standing territorial unity. This historical approach aims to counter Western perspectives that challenge China’s sovereignty in regions like Xinjiang and Tibet.

However, critics argue that China’s assimilation policies in these regions resemble colonialism, forcing non-Han ethnic groups to conform to Han cultural norms.

Conflicting Narratives of Sovereignty and Identity

China’s actions in Xinjiang and Tibet have drawn international condemnation, particularly over human rights violations. Beijing defends these actions as crucial to maintaining sovereignty and territorial integrity.

However, the push to assimilate ethnic marginalised groups into the Han-dominated fold threatens to deepen divisions. The pressure to adopt Mandarin and curtail religious practices raises questions about China’s ability to reconcile ethnic diversity with national unity.

China’s Growing Focus on Border Areas

China’s increasing focus on its border regions reflects more than just geopolitical concerns; it highlights fears over ethnic unrest. The government’s push for unity through economic development and historical narratives is part of a broader strategy to maintain control over these areas.

Whether these policies will result in long-term stability or further alienate ethnic marginalised groups remains to be seen.

China’s Border Strategy

As the trade war intensifies and internal tensions rise, China’s strategy to secure its borders and foster national unity is more critical than ever. How China balances economic development, historical narratives, and ethnic diversity will shape its future.

The country must navigate these challenges as it faces increasing pressure from the West while striving to assert itself globally.