U.S. and China Back at the Table Trade Truce on the Line

Back in the Game Baby Yeah

Alright folks Saul Goodman here your favorite attorney at law slash occasional news commentator. Seems like Uncle Sam and the fellas from the East are playing nice again or at least trying to look like it. They're hashing out deals in Paris probably over some fancy croissants and coffee I could only dream of affording back when I was shall we say finding my footing in the legal world. These talks are all about keeping the peace or at least preventing a full blown trade war. Remember what I always say 'Better call Saul' before things get nasty and that goes for international trade disputes too.

Tariffs Minerals and Mayhem

So what's on the menu this time. Well it sounds like they're wrestling with tariffs those pesky taxes that make everything more expensive. Then there's the rare earth minerals which I'm told are crucial for making all those fancy gadgets we can't live without. And of course gotta keep the farmers happy with those soybean sales. Sounds like a real three ring circus if you ask me. It seems relevant to recall the recent Middle East Airspace Shutdown Flight Chaos Ensues trade can quickly be affected by global events. It's all connected see. The big boys are playing chess while we're just trying not to get checkmated.

Iran in the Mix Seriously

And wouldn't you know it the whole situation in the Middle East is throwing a wrench in the works. The conflict with Iran is spiking oil prices which is bad news for everyone especially those of us who like to drive gas guzzling cars. The U.S. is trying to ease the pain with some sanction waivers but it's like putting a band aid on a bullet wound. Hopefully these trade talks can help smooth things over but let's be honest that's a long shot.

The Busan Deal Check Up

Remember that deal they cooked up in Busan. The one that was supposed to fix everything? Well they're taking a look to see if everyone's holding up their end of the bargain. Apparently China's buying soybeans like there's no tomorrow but some companies still aren't getting the rare earth minerals they need. Classic case of 'all bark and no bite' if you ask me. But hey at least they're talking right. That's gotta count for something.

New Probes and Potential Pitfalls

Of course it wouldn't be a trade negotiation without a few new roadblocks. The U.S. is launching new investigations into China's trade practices which is basically like poking a bear with a stick. China's not too happy about it and they're threatening to retaliate. This could get ugly fast folks. I'm starting to think I should invest in a good bomb shelter. You know for the clients.

A Sliver of Hope Maybe

But hey maybe just maybe there's a glimmer of hope. China says they want to work things out and the U.S. is at least willing to sit at the table. If both sides can put aside their egos and focus on finding common ground we might just avoid a full blown trade war. But don't hold your breath. As I always say 'Never trust a drug addict. And definitely never trust a lawyer!' Just kidding... mostly.