China has agreed to accept the return of undocumented Chinese citizens from the United States, following intense diplomatic pressure and threats of tariffs from former President Donald Trump.
At a Glance
- China will repatriate undocumented Chinese migrants after verifying their nationality
- Approximately 210,000 undocumented Chinese migrants were in the US as of 2022
- Four planeloads of undocumented Chinese migrants were repatriated last year
- Trump had previously threatened Colombia with tariffs over immigration issues
- China’s decision comes amid ongoing diplomatic tensions with the US
China’s Shift in Repatriation Policy
In a significant policy shift, China has agreed to accept the return of undocumented Chinese citizens from the United States. This decision comes after intense diplomatic pressure and follows tactics previously employed by former President Donald Trump, who had threatened other countries with high tariffs over immigration concerns.
When Trump says he’ll get something done, he means it.
“China will receive people who are confirmed as Chinese nationals from the mainland after verification,” Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said.
Mao Ning emphasized that “the Chinese government firmly opposes any form of illegal migration.” This policy shift aims to address the situation of approximately 210,000 undocumented migrants from China, including those from Hong Kong and Macau, who were residing in the US as of 2022.
Last year marked a significant milestone in the repatriation process, with China accepting four planeloads of undocumented Chinese migrants from the US. This action represented the first such repatriation since 2018, signaling a transformative approach after years of reluctance, especially during widespread pandemic restrictions. And now, they’re doing even more – and we can thank Trump for it.
The number of undocumented Chinese migrants in the US has likely increased post-pandemic, potentially due to changes in border crossing dynamics. This surge has put additional pressure on both US and Chinese authorities to address the issue.
Trump’s Influence on Immigration Policy
Former President Donald Trump’s aggressive stance on immigration has played a significant role in shaping these developments. Trump had previously threatened Colombia with tariffs for not accepting deported migrants, a tactic that seems to have influenced China’s decision.
Interestingly, Trump has taken a softer approach towards China on this issue, threatening only 10% tariffs related to fentanyl issues, compared to previous threats of up to 60% tariffs on other countries. This nuanced approach may have contributed to China’s willingness to cooperate on the repatriation of undocumented migrants.
China’s agreement to repatriate undocumented migrants represents a significant development in US-China relations. It demonstrates a willingness to cooperate on complex issues, even amid ongoing tensions between the two nations.
Any other country out there sending illegal aliens to the U.S. should consider themselves on notice.