China has expressed its disapproval of U.S. presidential contender Nikki Haley’s plan to reduce ties with the country, issuing a response that echoed her remarks by suggesting those who blame Beijing for problems will end up on the “ash heap of history.” Haley, who served as the U.N. ambassador during the Trump administration, has taken one of the most hawkish stances on China among the Republican candidates for the 2024 presidential race. She called for significant limitations on the U.S.-China relationship to address the sharp increase in overdose deaths in the U.S. caused by fentanyl.
Haley proposed revoking China’s permanent normal trade relations status until they take substantial action to curb the supply of chemicals used in fentanyl production. She also pledged to encourage American companies to withdraw from China, asserting that if the U.S. united against China, the ruling Communist Party would face consequences. China has labeled such statements as irresponsible.
U.S. officials have accused the Chinese government of lacking cooperation on the fentanyl issue and money laundering related to its trafficking, allegations that Beijing vehemently denies. China has countered by urging the U.S. to cease using the fentanyl crisis as a pretext for sanctioning Chinese companies. Chinese state media outlets have repeatedly emphasized that addiction and the demand for the drug are domestic issues within the United States.
Haley’s presidential primary campaign is trailing behind in opinion surveys, with only 3% of Republicans indicating their intention to vote for her, according to a Reuters/Ipsos poll released earlier in June. In an effort to differentiate herself in a competitive Republican field, Haley has focused on foreign policy, and her hardline stance on China may influence other candidates to adopt more stringent positions as well.
