James Zimmerman was quoted in the New York Times article, "Trump’s Trade War Threat Poses Problems for China and Investors," on the U.S. forcing China to make difficult decisions with regard to its economic recovery.

Jim said that China’s State Council, its cabinet, could make the necessary changes on its own. However, handling legal changes quietly through the State Council would make them less visible to provincial and local officials in China. The United States has tried to force through changes in how all levels of government in China handle questions like forced technology transfers and export subsidies, not just the national government in Beijing.