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Tariffs

Behind-the-Scenes Chinese Lobbying Against US-China Trade War

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

As the US-China trade war intensifies, a recent email exchange between the Port of Los Angeles CEO Gene Seroka and Chinese Consul General's wife Wang Wei has shed light on the behind-the-scenes Chinese lobbying efforts directed at state and local authorities in the US. The emails, obtained through a public records request, reveal a more pragmatic and pro-business view of ties between the two nations, contrasting with Washington's more aggressive stance.

Key Takeaways:

  • A Chinese diplomat's wife, Wang Wei, expressed support for Port of Los Angeles CEO Gene Seroka's views on the US-China trade war, praising his "practical, well-reasoned, and very convincing" opinions in an email on May 6.
  • The email exchange highlights the behind-the-scenes lobbying efforts by Chinese officials and their families to influence state and local authorities in the US.
  • State and local authorities, such as the Port of Los Angeles, are more inclined to see the benefits of business between the US and China, despite growing skepticism from the US government.
  • The Port of Los Angeles announced a 35% drop in cargo compared to the previous year in the week of the email exchange.
  • The exchange between Seroka and Wang was described as typical of his work as port CEO, highlighting his wide range of international business relationships.
  • Chinese investment into US tech start-ups and efforts by intelligence agencies to recruit US officials have raised concerns among US authorities.
  • US government warnings about Chinese engagement with state and local authorities are largely "overblown," with most activity being harmless and only becoming problematic when money is involved.

Statistics:

  • A 35% drop in cargo at the Port of Los Angeles compared to the previous year was announced in the week of the email exchange.
  • The US-China trade war has paused as Washington and Beijing work towards a comprehensive trade deal, with pressing issues including protectionism and "unilateral bullying."

Sources:

  • Al Jazeera: "US-China agree to framework on trade talks in London" (https://www.aljazeera.com/economy/2025/6/11/us-china-agree-to-framework-on-trade-talks-in-london)
  • Twitter: Jim Watson/AFP (https://twitter.com/AFP/status/1513056742203023761)
  • Al Jazeera: "US-China Sister Cities Summit held in Tacoma, Washington state" (context for diplomacy between lower-level officials)
  • United States National Counterintelligence and Security Centre: warnings about Chinese investment into US tech start-ups and efforts by intelligence agencies to recruit US officials.

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