The Australian Broadcasting Corporation reported today (April 11): "[Australia Politely Declines to Partner with China to Counter Trump's Tariffs]" As Trump reignites the tariff storm, both Australia and China will inevitably be affected, but Australia has clearly stated that it will not "team up with China against the U.S." Deputy Prime Minister of Australia, Mars, said, "I don't think we will team up with China." He expressed that Canberra will adhere to national interests, focusing on promoting trade diversification.
The Australian economy is heavily reliant on resource exports, maintaining close trade ties with both the United States and China. China is Australia's largest trading partner, with bilateral trade reaching 230 billion Australian dollars in 2024, covering resources like iron ore and agricultural products. The U.S. is also an important trade and military ally for Australia, with bilateral trade amounting to around 50 billion Australian dollars in 2024, and deeply integrated in the security sector.
This complex economic, trade, political, and military relationship makes Australia reluctant to "team up," as joining the anti-U.S. tariff camp might damage its relations with the U.S., affecting its reliance on security support.
Source: https://www.toutiao.com/article/1829112241288192/
Disclaimer: This article solely represents the views of the author.