China, Japan and South Korea Strengthen Trade Ties Amid U.S. Tariff War

For the first time in five years, trade ministers from China, Japan, and South Korea met in Seoul last week to discuss enhancing regional trade. The meeting comes in response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariffs, including a 25% import duty on cars and auto parts—measures that particularly impact Asian automakers, the top suppliers of vehicles to the U.S.

Regional Alliance

Discussions focused on mitigating the economic impact of U.S. tariffs. Japan and South Korea plan to import semiconductor raw materials from China, while Beijing will secure chip products from both countries, according to a social media account linked to Chinese state broadcaster CCTV. This cooperation aims to stabilize supply chains across Asia.

The ministers also pledged to accelerate talks on a free trade agreement to reduce reliance on the U.S. market and promote regional economic self-sufficiency. Experts suggest that this collaboration signals a shift in economic strategy, as the three nations prioritize trade stability over historical and political differences.

“It is necessary to strengthen the implementation of RCEP, in which all three countries have participated, and to create a framework for expanding trade cooperation among the three countries through Korea-China-Japan FTA negotiations,” said South Korean Trade Minister Ahn Duk-geun, referring to the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership.

Global Trade Implications

With a combined GDP of over $20 trillion, China, Japan, and South Korea’s economic alliance could significantly impact global trade flows and economic growth.

A joint statement released after the meeting underscored their commitment to promoting regional trade and strengthening economic cooperation. It also emphasized the importance of World Trade Organization (WTO) reforms to address global trade challenges.

By deepening regional collaboration, the three nations aim to counterbalance U.S. trade policies, fostering a more stable and predictable global trading environment.