A year into Trump presidency, ‘pivot to China’ gathers pace

One year into Donald Trump’s presidency, global political and economic dynamics are showing clear signs of change, with China emerging as a major beneficiary. As Washington reassesses its global role and trade priorities, several countries are increasingly strengthening ties with Beijing.

This shift is visible in British Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s visit to China, aimed at repairing and revitalising business relations that have been strained in recent years. The visit reflects the UK’s effort to secure economic stability and growth at a time when global markets remain uncertain and traditional alliances are under pressure.

Experts say China is expected to further expand its political and economic influence worldwide. With the US focusing more on domestic priorities and adopting a tougher stance on trade, Beijing is positioning itself as an alternative global partner, especially for countries seeking reliable markets and investment.

China has stepped up diplomatic engagement across Europe, Asia, Africa, and developing economies. Trade cooperation, infrastructure investment, and technology partnerships remain key tools in strengthening its global footprint. Beijing continues to project itself as a supporter of multilateral cooperation and open markets.

For European nations, closer engagement with China is driven largely by economic needs. Slowing growth, energy challenges, and supply chain disruptions have pushed governments to adopt a more pragmatic approach—balancing security concerns with economic opportunities.

However, analysts caution that deeper ties with China also bring challenges. Concerns over market access, trade imbalances, technology security, and strategic dependence remain central to discussions. As a result, many countries are pursuing a “de-risking” strategy—engaging economically with China while limiting long-term vulnerabilities.

As the Trump presidency moves forward, the global order appears to be shifting toward a more multipolar structure. The growing “pivot to China” highlights how nations are adjusting to geopolitical uncertainty and redefining partnerships in a rapidly changing world.