Beijing [China]: China has strongly condemned the United States’ decision to impose a 34% tariff on Chinese imports, calling it a violation of WTO rules and a threat to the multilateral trading system.
China’s Sharp Criticism of US Tariff Hikes
Speaking at a press briefing, Guo Jiakun, spokesperson for China’s Foreign Ministry, denounced the tariff move, saying it undermines global trade stability.
“The US announced tariff hikes on imports from many countries, including China, under the pretext of reciprocity. This gravely violates WTO rules and undermines the rules-based multilateral trading system. China firmly rejects this and will do what is necessary to defend our legitimate rights and interests,” Guo stated.
He emphasized that trade wars have no winners and urged the US to resolve trade disputes through consultation, rather than protectionism.
China Warns of Countermeasures
China’s Commerce Ministry also issued a warning, stating that “resolute counter-measures” will be taken against the tariff escalation announced by US President Donald Trump.
“There is no winner in a trade war, and protectionism leads nowhere. China urges the US to immediately remove unilateral tariffs and resolve differences with trade partners through dialogue,” a ministry spokesperson told the state-owned Global Times.
Guo further stressed that opposition to US tariffs is growing globally:
“It is clear that more and more countries have come to stand against the US’s tariff hikes and other unilateral bullying moves,” he said.
US Tariff Policy Faces Global Backlash
The US has imposed tariffs of at least 10% on all trading partners, with even higher rates for 60 countries, leading to widespread criticism.
Notable tariff hikes include:
- 49% on Cambodia
- 46% on Vietnam
- 34% on China
- 26% on India
- 24% on Japan
- 20% on the European Union
President Donald Trump has defended the tariffs as necessary to protect American industries, but international markets and global leaders have reacted negatively, warning of potential economic turmoil.
What’s Next? China’s Likely Response
China is expected to take several retaliatory actions, which could include:
✅ Higher tariffs on US goods entering China.
✅ Restrictions on US companies operating in China.
✅ Strengthening trade partnerships with other countries.
With the April 9 deadline for tariff implementation approaching, all eyes are now on how China and the US will handle this growing trade war escalation.