China's Censorship: The Climate Surrounding Trump’s Tariffs

Chinese censorship is limiting discussion on Trump's tariffs while promoting mockery of the U.S., showcasing a strategic narrative control amidst economic challenges.

Chinese censors appear to be meticulously shaping public discourse regarding the U.S. tariffs that were implemented earlier this week. State media have highlighted criticism towards the United States while downplaying the specific details regarding President Trump's tariffs, which raise import taxes on Chinese goods to an unprecedented 104 percent.

On Weibo, a prominent social media platform in China, numerous hashtags related to the number 104—like "104 tariff rate" or "America imposing 104 percent tariff on Chinese goods"—have been met with error messages stating: "Sorry, the content of this topic is not displayed." In stark contrast, hashtags that focus on ridiculing the United States or emphasizing China's strengths have been allowed to trend freely and were even initiated by state media. A notable trending hashtag from CCTV, China's state broadcaster, read: "America is fighting a trade war while begging for eggs." Another popular phrase was "China does not provoke trouble but is never afraid of it."

The tone employed by state media has been consistently aggressive and confident. Opinion articles published in the People’s Daily, the official publication of the Chinese Communist Party, asserted that China has garnered valuable lessons from years of trade tensions, leading to a more diversified and resilient economy. One article proclaimed, "In the DNA of the Chinese people, we never fear any risks, challenges, difficulties, or contradictions, and we can view all forms of external pressure as motivation for our advancement."

Additionally, commentary from well-known Weibo influencers echoed similar sentiments, suggesting that the trade war serves as evidence of the United States' decline. Many called for China to assert its strength in response to these tariffs. Meanwhile, state media has consistently highlighted government efforts aimed at fostering employment opportunities for recent graduates, underscoring the resilience of the Chinese economy amid external pressures.