Trade data reflects this: The gap between the goods the United States exports to and imports from China narrowed to $278 billion in 2023 from $417 billion in 2018. While that level is set to rebound this year, economists say U.S. imports of goods from China that are covered by tariffs have clearly dropped.

Some industries that compete with cheap Chinese products — like apparel and cabinet makers — credit those tariffs with keeping American manufacturers in business.

After the United States put hefty tariffs on Chinese solar panels, for example, many Chinese companies opened solar factories in Southeast Asia. U.S. solar companies have initiated trade cases, successfully appealing to the government for more protection from these factories.

Some of these moves may emanate from a natural desire by Chinese companies to cater to global markets, especially at a time when China’s domestic economy and consumer demand are relatively weak. But economists and business owners say some of it is undoubtedly an effort to circumvent Mr. Trump’s 2018 China tariffs, which the Biden administration has kept in place.

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