## Trade war in the era of social networks: analysis of a new battlefield
Recent news has seen the emergence of an intriguing dynamic in the context of the trade war between the United States and China, where social media platforms, including Tiktok, become unconventional transaction spaces. This phenomenon raises questions not only on the impact of pricing policies, but also on the nature of modern trade relations as well as on the safety of consumers.
### Repercussions of customs tariffs
The customs tariffs imposed by the Trump administration, including a rate of 145 %, aim to reduce the economic dependence of the United States towards China. However, this approach can cause unexpected consequences. Many American consumers are starting to feel increased pressure on their budgets, which could encourage them to explore less conventional alternatives, such as purchases directly from so-called Chinese manufacturers on platforms like Tiktok.
The emergence of content creators on Tiktok, who claim to sell brand products at significantly lower prices than those of official retailers, testifies to this challenge. One of the popular videos shows a user offering Lululemon brand leggings at a ridiculous price, contradicting the brand’s claims on the legitimacy of these offers. This type of influencer not only raises doubts concerning the veracity of affirmations, but also testifies to the way in which consumers react to an increase in prices announced.
### The complexity of supply chains
Logistics and operations management experts emphasize that the situation is all the more complex due to the vague structures of supply chains in the luxury industry. Often, products, although associated with manufacturers established in France or Italy, can have components or an initial assembly made in China. This opacity makes it difficult to trace materials and manufacturing processes, which is worrying for consumers concerned about the quality and origin of their products.
Videos on Tiktok evoke the potential for counterfeits, which can expose buyers at considerable risks. Without protection in terms of guarantee or return, these consumers may well regret an impulsive purchase decision motivated by attractive prices.
#### Dependence on global consumption
Beyond the immediate consequences for consumers, this situation highlights the growing dependence of the United States towards international supply chains. Despite political pressures to “buy American”, direct access to products at competitive prices has become a reality for many Americans, which questions the viability of certain pricing policies.
Comments under these viral videos reveal an understanding of this dynamic: consumers are aware of the issues, but are often trapped between the desire to save and the ethical implications of their consumption. This ambivalence in the face of consumerism calls for a more in -depth reflection on the way in which consumers can navigate in this era of commercial complexity.
#### to an enlightened consumer awareness
The current situation could serve as a catalyst for increased awareness within consumers in the face of the origin of products and the impact of their purchase choices. It might be wise to intensify consumer education on the risks associated with non-verified purchases, while promoting more ethical and responsible consumption.
Companies, for their part, could also benefit from increased transparency concerning their supply chains. By communicating proactively on the origin of products and social responsibility, they could strengthen consumer confidence while thwarting the disinformation that thrives on social networks.
#### Conclusion
The emergence of this phenomenon on Tiktok illustrates the challenges faced by consumers in an increasingly interconnected world. While the trade war transcends the simple exchanges of goods, it raises fundamental questions on the nature of modern consumption and the way in which consumers can act responsible and enlightened. Developing a nuanced understanding of these challenges could open the way for constructive solutions, both for consumers and for businesses, in this complex era.