Damn right. And the solution isn't to substitute another unreliable trading partner like China. By all means, make deals that make sense, and I think for the most part China will keep them, until they don't. They will always look to gain an advantage and wield the hammer when it suits them, including hostage diplomacy. I have more confidence in Europe, Indo-Pacific, and expanding new markets in Africa and South America.

But strengthening self-reliance and removing internal barriers can only pay dividends. And working with reliable partners that keep their agreements is the only way forward. The only thing that has long term value in trade is trust.

[–] Vergissmeinnicht@lemmy.ca 30 points 1 day ago (1 children)

Trading with China is fine, just not putting all our eggs in the China basket. As long as they're one trade partner among many it's a much more equal relationship.

But yeah, favouring internal trade should be a priority.

[–] ArmchairAce1944@lemmy.ca 12 points 19 hours ago

Diversify, diversify, diversify. And don't be too dependent on outside stuff. The neoliberal shit needs to end. All it took is one jackass to bring it all down.

[–] sik0fewl@piefed.ca 24 points 1 day ago

It’s not substitution, it’s expansion. It’s better to have more options, even (or especially) when some are unreliable.

Completely agree with your points, though.