China has issued a warning to other nations, cautioning them against forming trade agreements with the United States that could negatively impact Chinese interests. This development follows President Donald Trump’s announcement of extensive tariffs against nearly all U.S. trading partners on April 2. These import taxes were initially paused for most countries after market reactions, yet tariffs on China were intensified.
The Chinese Commerce Ministry expressed firm opposition to any agreements that might compromise China’s interests, stating that China would not accept such deals and would respond with reciprocal countermeasures. The ministry emphasized China’s determination and capability to protect its rights and interests.
In response to these developments, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent suggested that countries negotiating trade deals with the U.S. should collaborate with Washington in approaching China. The Chinese ministry criticized the U.S. tariffs as economic bullying, asserting that appeasement would not lead to peace, and compromise would not garner respect. The ministry warned that sacrificing others’ interests for temporary benefits is doomed to fail and would ultimately harm all parties involved.
While China has expressed openness to discussions with the U.S., no specific meetings have been scheduled. President Trump has imposed the highest tariffs on China, with several rounds resulting in duties totaling 145% on Chinese imports. In retaliation, Beijing has imposed tariffs of 125% on U.S. imports.
These trade tensions have unsettled exporters and disrupted shipments, posing a threat to the global economy’s stability.
