In April 2025, the US–China trade war escalated once again. The U.S. government announced a 145 percent tariff on key Chinese electronic products. In response, China quickly imposed restrictions on rare earth exports and raised tariffs on selected American goods. This may seem like a contest between two global powers, but its chain reactions have quietly spread to Chinese students studying in Malaysia.

“Ever since the trade war started up again, I’ve been paying about 50 yuan more just to take out RM1,500 from the ATM compared to two weeks ago,” said Gong Ruichen, a third-year Business Administration student at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia. “It may not sound like much, but over a month—rent, food, Grab rides—it really adds up.”

Another third-year international student at UKM, Li Jilu, shared a similar concern. “Back when I first arrived in Malaysia, it only took about 1.53 yuan to exchange for 1 ringgit. Now it takes nearly 1.67 yuan for the same amount,” he said. “Living costs have definitely gone up because of that.”

While some Chinese international students have felt the economic pressure more directly, not all have had the same experience. "To be honest, I haven't felt much impact from the trade war so far. My spending has been relatively stable," said Lin Weixuan, a third-year Malaysian Chinese student at the National University of Malaysia. Although the United States has imposed a 24% tariff on some Malaysian products, the overall economic impact is still mild compared to other countries that have been more deeply affected by trade tensions. For local students, the impact is less obvious and less urgent, but for international students who rely on exchange rate fluctuations and overseas remittances, the economic pressure is more obvious.

Recent statements from Bank Negara Malaysia highlight how global trade tensions and market uncertainty have made currency exchange rates more volatile. For Chinese students in Malaysia, this volatility can quickly turn into higher costs for everyday essentials—especially when living expenses are tied to yuan-to-ringgit conversions.

Why would a trade war between two superpowers affect an ordinary student in Bangi? Because in today’s globalized world, economic consequences don’t stop at national borders. The trade war is disrupting supply chains, shaking investor confidence, and putting pressure on currency systems. As a result, students like us are seeing higher living expenses and tuition fees without warning.

So the question is: what can Chinese students in this “middle zone” do, other than feel frustrated? Are we just passive observers in a struggle far bigger than ourselves?

As someone experiencing this firsthand, I believe the first step is to stay informed. Understanding how global events shape our daily lives allows us to take action. We can manage our budgets more carefully, reduce unnecessary spending. In addition, we can stay in close communication with our families about exchange rate trends, helping them understand that this financial strain is not our fault, and ensuring timely support when needed. When the exchange rate is more favorable, it’s also wise to withdraw a bit more in advance to prepare for future fluctuations. In uncertain times, small steps like these make a real difference.

The US–China trade war isn’t just a political dispute between governments. It’s more like a slow-moving storm, reaching into the lives of people who never expected to be part of it. We may not know when this will end, or what the next shock will look like. But one thing is certain: we need to be ready.