O'Leary Advocates for US Economic Leverage Over China

Kevin O’Leary, entrepreneur and 'Shark Tank' star, argues that the United States should use its dominant economic leverage to pressure China into fairer trade practices, including enforcing intellectual property rules and ending regulatory double standards. He asserts that now is the pivotal moment for the U.S. to negotiate comprehensive solutions with China, given America's status as the world’s largest consumer economy. O’Leary supports a tough stance on China, highlighting issues such as IP theft and market access, and believes the resulting market volatility is justified if it leads to long-term resolution. However, some business advocates warn that China has been preparing for U.S. tariffs for years and is unlikely to be pressured easily, as Beijing sees tariff policy as part of a broader American strategy to contain its growth. Additionally, O’Leary notes that small U.S. businesses have not yet fully felt the impact of China tariffs, as many have shifted manufacturing to countries like Vietnam and India. Together, these perspectives suggest that while U.S. leverage is significant, achieving a balanced trade relationship with China remains complex and may not be resolved quickly.