This chart from Ed Conard’s Macro Update shows that while China (in red) is still the dominant country in the U.S. trading system, its influence has fallen in recent years. Meanwhile, Mexico (green), Viet Nam (yellow)) and Ireland (light green) are becoming bigger trading partners with the U.S. We regard this trend toward decoupling with Beijing as a positive trend. Thanks to Andy Puzder for pointing this out to us – and you.