Chinese tire worker: Protectionism no good to anyone

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After 5 months of negotiation, the US president has imposed punitive tariffs on Chinese made replacement tires. Analysts say the decision will force US consumers to pay higher prices and limit their choices. Chinese tire workers also fear the decision will create instability in employment, and hurt both countries.

Zhu Xiaojun is a skilled factory worker at a tire plant in Hangzhou. His whole family moved from his hometown in Jiangsu. He rented a small apartment for 400 yuan a month. Although his job could not allow him to live a luxurious life, he was able to save money and pay for his son's education. But since the trade dispute, he has been worrying about the future. The family fears their employer will be forced to cut more jobs.

Zhu Xiaojun, worker of Hangzhou Zhongce Rubber Co. said "I don't know much about trade or economic issues. But I do know trade protectionism won't be good for anyone. If any workers lose their jobs, they will have to leave Hangzhou."

But a few Chinese tire makers began moving to other targets several months ago. They are now focusing on the domestic market. Some companies are also promising not to cut jobs.

Zhu Xiaojun said "I told my wife the news that my boss has promised no layoffs or salary cuts. Our company has been shifting focus since this summer. Our major clients are now domestic buyers. Orders from European and other countries are also doing good. But there will be impacts. And my boss has told me that, our exports to the US make up less than 5 percent of the firm's total."

Many Chinese tire workers say they are not young anymore. And it will be hard to find a position with a stable income, if they lose their existing job. The China Rubber Industry Association has estimated, that the US tariff could cost 100-thousand Chinese jobs, as the country's tire exports to the US will be halted for a year.