Home Analysis The Third Opium War AnalysisRegional DirectoryAsia PacificDeep DiveEuropeUnited States The Third Opium War By Jacob L. Shapiro - January 10, 2019 2541 To understand China’s current confrontation with the West over trade, historical context is key. This article is for subscribers only Join thousands of readers who rely on GPF for clear-eyed geopolitical analysis. $89 per year Save 18% vs. monthly ✓Full access to all daily analysis & forecasts ✓George Friedman's geopolitical insights ✓2026 Forecast & Special Collection on the Middle East ✓100% reader-supported Subscribe Now 30-day money-back guarantee Already a subscriber? Log in RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR Analysis Daily Memo: China Issues Peculiar Airspace Restrictions, Oil Cartel Raises Quotas Analysis China and the Iran Negotiations Analysis Daily Memo: Update on Hormuz, Intel on Iranian Weapons Latest Posts China and the Iran NegotiationsFREE Analysis George Friedman - April 6, 2026 Continue to the category Daily Memo: China Issues Peculiar Airspace Restrictions, Oil Cartel Raises Quotas Analysis Geopolitical Futures - April 6, 2026 George Answers Your Questions: The Future of War Is Here Analysis George Friedman - April 4, 2026