The United States, Japan and France are urging their businesses to depend less on China to make smartphones, drugs, and many other products. But few companies appear to want to leave China’s skilled workforce and suppliers of unprocessed materials to move to other countries. Too much dependence on China leaves global companies open to costly problems during major world crises. The spread of the new coronavirus is one example. Also, the U.S. and China have been locked in a trade war for several years. Both countries have raised taxes on the goods they exchange. Drug makers are one group that is trying to reduce dependence on Chinese suppliers. The industry is establishing sources of unprocessed materials in the U.S. and Europe. But the medical device, consumer electronics and other industries are continuing to depend on China.

What is a trade war?
when one country raises import tariffs or places other trade restrictions on another country
when the U.S. stock market closes
when one country opens its borders and does not require visas
another name for a fight that breaks out on a school playground
When does too much dependence on China leave companies open to costly problems?
during good times
in the beginning of each year
on holidays
during major world crises
The United States, Japan and France are urging businesses to depend less on China.
New Zealand
China
Germany
Peru