Certain nations positioned around major economic players have become pivotal in the global supply chain. Referred to as economic buffer zones, these countries strategically navigate the shifts in major power dynamics, finding opportunities amidst the complexities of global trade. Meanwhile, they also support the expansion of global economic influence by major countries. Using Vietnam and Mexico as case studies, we’ll explore how they thrived during the U.S.–China trade tensions, evolving into dynamic economic buffer zones within their regions. This chapter will unravel the competition and strategic maneuvers between the U.S. and China across trade, economy, technology, and innovation. Finally, this article will explore the following question: Have the economic ties between China and the United States truly weakened, or have they shifted to more indirect connections and interactions?