Just months earlier, he had been re-appointed General Secretary of the Chinese Communist Party, the country's most powerful position. Unfortunately for Xi, the trade troubles come ahead of possibly his most important year yet. Xi's handling of events in 2019 could determine the future of China's economy and his place in the pantheon of Communist Party leaders. There have been hints Xi may not expect a quick resolution to the Trump trade standoff. Inside the party, Xi has clearly consolidated his control.

Source: CNN January 06, 2019 00:11 UTC