As unilateralism and protectionism rise, China's opening-up continues. The upcoming special customs operations of the Hainan Free Trade Port reflect this confidence.

When the US targets China's "weaknesses", China responds by addressing them and by sharpening its advantages, said Zhao Zhongxiu, president of the University of International Business and Economics. China has been "filling the gaps" in chips, industrial software and energy security, while "strengthening its strong areas" through its manufacturing strength, rapid tech iterations and vast domestic market.