Reference: The Economist
Cambodia was shocked when the US announced a 49% tariff on its exports, threatening its garment industry, __(1)__ heavily relied on the American market. The news came as a part of border tariff across Southeast Asia, with Vietnam, Thailand, and Indonesia also hit hard. Even Singapore, despite its trade deficit with the US, faced a 10% tariff. In response, most countries chose diplomacy __(2)__retaliation, seeking negotiation instead, as they lack the economic leverage of China or the EU.
Meanwhile, Chinese President Xi Jinping’s upcoming visit to Vietnam, Malaysia and Cambodia was seen as a timely boost. Though planned earlier, his trip contrasts with America's erratic trade stance, offering a more __(3)__strategy to deepen China’s regional influence. __(4)__, Southeast Asian countries remain cautious. Many fear a surge of Chinese exports diverted from the US could flood their markets, damaging local industries. A Malaysian official even described it as a “second-level trade war” among Asian nations. Despite these concerns, Xi’s steady approach may still __(5)__countries grappling with America’s unpredictability.- (A) how (B)who (C) what (D) which
- (A) over (B) with (C) on (D) of
- (A) edible (B)opposite (C) consistent (D) identical
- (A) In fact (B)However (C) Instead (D) Also
- (A) adjust to (B) let down (C) treat with (D) appeal to
Answer: DACBD
Reading comprehension
- What is the main purpose of this passage?
(A) To explain the impact of US tariff increases on Southeast Asian countries.
(B) To show how China is trying to expand its economic influence in Asia.
(C) To argue that the US made a poor decision by raising tariffs.
(D) To support and promote China's diplomatic visit to Southeast Asia.
- Why are Southeast Asian countries concerned about Chinese goods not being exported to the US?
(A) Because some Chinese products are manufactured in their countries.
(B) Because Chinese goods may flood their markets and hurt local industries.
(C) Because they have a close relationship with China.
(D) Because they rely on China for economic profits.
- Which of the following is NOT true according to the passage?
(A) Singapore has a trade deficit with the US but still faces new tariffs.
(B) Mr. Xi's visit to Cambodia was planned before the US announced tariffs.
(C)Southeast Asian countries remain are cautious about getting too close to China.
(D)Southeast Asian countries are eager to align themselves with China.
- Please fill in the blanks with the correct words and make grammatical changes if necessary. (There should be one word in each blank.)_
Chinese goods may be _________ to Southeast Asian countries. They are concerned that it would ________ local industries.
- Which noun in the second paragraph means "a sudden and large increase"?
Answer:
- A
- B
- D
- diverted, damage
- surge
