2025 was a year of dramatic twists and turns in the U.S.-China tariff war. Starting with escalating tariffs at the beginning of the year, the two sides gradually moved toward a phased easing. Each round of negotiations drove substantive changes in the relationship:

Special attention is required: current tariff measures are “suspended” rather than “removed.” This implies they constitute policy uncertainty for future trade, and should circumstances change, some tariffs could be reinstated.

In this environment, waging a protracted battle demands resilience and wisdom.

Only by preparing thoroughly before opportunities arise can one truly master the rules of survival:

1. Avoid putting all eggs in one basket by reducing reliance on single sales or supply channels.

Since the trade war began, U.S. policies have fluctuated unpredictably. To navigate this volatility, embrace the core principle of “multiple channels, multiple platforms, multiple countries.” Leverage diverse regulatory frameworks and ecosystems to mitigate policy risks tied to any single platform.

For e-commerce, consider regional platforms alongside mainstream ones.

Actively leverage the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and explore proactive customer acquisition methods in foreign trade to reduce dependence on a single sales platform.

Vigorously expand into markets beyond the U.S., such as the EU, ASEAN, the Middle East, Latin America, and Belt and Road countries, achieving a globalized layout for both markets and production. (When the U.S. market contracts due to policy changes, growth in other markets can offset losses.)

2. Avoid obsessive pursuit of viral hits; instead, moderately pursue viral potential while selecting niche, high-quality products.

Research indicates the lifespan of viral hits is progressively shortening. (Once trends fade or platform algorithms shift, sales plummet dramatically, posing significant inventory backlog risks.)

Strategic advantages of “small yet exquisite product selection”: Focus on a niche, vertical field to serve a precise customer base with specific needs. In this domain, you compete not on scale or price against giants, but on expertise, service, and depth. User loyalty is high, and demand is global.

3. Stabilize the Supply Chain

In international trade, “reliability” holds greater value than “low cost.” Consistently delivering high-quality products on time establishes a company's reputation as trustworthy—the cornerstone for earning long-term customer loyalty.

4. Persevere! (Business thrives on steady growth, not overnight success)

Time waits for no one—neither do customers, and competitors certainly won't.

In today's foreign trade landscape, the urgency of launching a multi-channel customer acquisition strategy is greater than ever before.