US-China Trade War Escalates as Section 301 Investigations Add New Tensions
Written by Emily J. Thompson, Senior Investment Analyst
Updated: Mar 12 2026
0mins
Source: CNBC
- Launch of Section 301 Investigations: The U.S. has initiated trade investigations against China under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, aiming to identify unfair trade practices, particularly in manufacturing sectors, which adds new layers of tension to the already strained U.S.-China relationship.
- Surge in Exports and Trade Surplus: Despite criticism from global trading partners, China's exports surged by 21.8% in the first two months, boosting its trade surplus to a record high of $213.6 billion, indicating a continued reliance on external demand.
- Uncertain Summit Outlook: With the summit approaching, the widening gap between both sides' agendas, especially regarding potential investigations into forced labor practices, adds uncertainty to negotiations and may hinder future trade agreements.
- Challenges in Maintaining Stability: While Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi calls for a suitable environment for the summit, the U.S. is likely to push for long-term commitments on agricultural purchases, and expectations for substantial breakthroughs have significantly diminished, suggesting limited outcomes from the upcoming meeting.
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Analyst Views on LMT
Wall Street analysts forecast LMT stock price to rise
12 Analyst Rating
4 Buy
7 Hold
1 Sell
Hold
Current: 516.500
Low
430.00
Averages
535.50
High
605.00
Current: 516.500
Low
430.00
Averages
535.50
High
605.00
About LMT
Lockheed Martin Corporation is an aerospace and defense technology company. The Company's segments include Aeronautics, Missiles and Fire Control (MFC), Rotary and Mission Systems (RMS) and Space. The Aeronautics segment is engaged in research, design, development, manufacture, integration, sustainment, support and upgrade of advanced military aircraft, including combat and air mobility aircraft, unmanned air vehicles and related technologies. The MFC segment provides air and missile defense systems; tactical missiles and precision strike weapon systems; logistics; fire control systems; engineering support and integration services. The RMS segment designs, manufactures, services and supports various military and commercial helicopters, sea and land-based missile defense systems. The Space segment is engaged in the research and design, development, engineering and production of satellites, space transportation systems, and strategic, advanced strike, and defensive systems.
About the author
Emily J. Thompson
Emily J. Thompson, a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) with 12 years in investment research, graduated with honors from the Wharton School. Specializing in industrial and technology stocks, she provides in-depth analysis for Intellectia’s earnings and market brief reports.
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