News analysis

Trade row could spur China to deepen reforms

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It seems counter-intuitive, but some Chinese are applauding US President Donald Trump's move to pressure China to increase its import of US goods.

Some are calling Mr Trump a "really good person" and that's because US pressure has led China to reduce tariffs on many products from cancer drugs to cars and consumables such as cosmetics, apparel and washing machines.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on June 01, 2018, with the headline Trade row could spur China to deepen reforms. Subscribe