french.china.org.cn
OECD Lowers Global Growth Forecast Amidst Rising Trade Barriers
Amidst rising global trade barriers and geopolitical uncertainty, the OECD lowered its global economic growth forecast, while raising China's forecast and lowering the US's; China reiterated its commitment to free trade, criticizing protectionist measures.
- What is the immediate impact of rising global trade barriers on projected economic growth in major economies?
- The OECD lowered its global economic growth forecast for 2025 to 3.1 percent and 3 percent for 2026, citing increased trade barriers and geopolitical uncertainty. China's growth forecast was raised to 4.8 percent for 2025, while the US forecast slowed to 2.2 percent in 2025 and 1.6 percent in 2026. Chinese officials affirmed their commitment to free trade and multilateralism, rejecting protectionist measures.
- How are China and the US responding differently to the challenges posed by increased trade barriers and global uncertainty?
- Rising trade barriers, particularly those imposed by the US, are impacting global economic growth, according to the OECD. China maintains its support for open trade, contrasting with the US's protectionist stance and resulting economic uncertainties. The US's trade policies are criticized for harming American consumers and businesses, potentially leading to higher prices and job losses, while failing to achieve its goal of reindustrialization.
- What are the potential long-term consequences of the US's protectionist trade policies on the global economic order and international trade relations?
- The US's protectionist trade policies risk triggering a shift in global trade alliances. Continued unilateral actions could lead other economies to create a new international trade system independent of US dominance, potentially reshaping the global economic landscape in the coming years. The resulting uncertainty and decreased economic cooperation could further stifle global growth.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The headline (if there were one) and introduction would likely emphasize China's stance on free trade and the negative consequences of US trade policies. The sequencing of information presents the OECD's lowered growth predictions, then China's response, followed by criticisms of US policy, creating a narrative that positions China as a defender of global economic stability and the US as a disruptive force. This prioritization impacts public understanding by subtly favoring China's perspective.
Language Bias
The article uses some loaded language, such as describing US trade policies as "capricious" and a "trade war." The phrase "sacrificing their standard of living" also carries a negative connotation. More neutral alternatives could include "unpredictable," "trade dispute," and "potentially impacting their standard of living." The repeated emphasis on China's commitment to free trade could also be seen as subtly biased.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the perspectives of Chinese officials and experts, giving less weight to counterarguments or alternative viewpoints from the US side. While the article mentions opinions from the Peterson Institute for International Economics, the overall balance leans heavily towards the Chinese narrative. The impact of US trade policies on other countries besides China is largely absent.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat simplistic dichotomy between China's support for free trade and the US's protectionist policies. The nuances of US trade policy and the motivations behind it are not fully explored, leading to an oversimplified framing of the conflict.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article discusses the negative impact of trade barriers and protectionist policies on global economic growth and the resulting slowdown in various countries, including the US and the Eurozone. This directly affects decent work and economic growth as reduced economic activity leads to job losses, lower wages, and hinders overall economic progress. The quotes highlighting the negative effects of trade wars on businesses and consumers support this connection.