Part 9/13:
While US exports to China dipped following tariff impositions, Chinese exporters swiftly adapted by redirecting their goods to other markets, notably Europe and Southeast Asia. This diversification prevented a significant overall decline in China's export volumes.
Use of Third Countries for Transshipment
Moreover, China has possibly employed third countries to reroute goods to dodge tariffs—an approach known as transshipment. For example, Chinese exporters might ship goods to a third country with lower tariffs or no tariffs and then re-export them to the US. This strategy helps maintain China's export levels despite bilateral tariffs.