Majority believe the US should take the lead in de-escalation, report finds.

Business leaders around the world believe the ongoing US-China trade conflict is damaging America’s global reputation, and that the US should take initiative to ease tensions, according to new research by communications consultancy Sandpiper.

The report shows most respondents see current US policy as the primary driver of the conflict, with 73% citing it over China’s trade practices (61%). Over half (56%) expect the US economy to be the most heavily impacted. Many also feel unprepared to manage the fallout.

The findings are based on a survey of 3,050 business leaders across 27 countries.