China has pledged to respond after President Donald Trump announced significant new tariffs on its exports to the United States as part of a comprehensive overhaul of American global trade policy.
On Wednesday, Trump unveiled a 54% tariff on all Chinese imports into the U.S., a move that could significantly alter relations and escalate the trade war between the world’s two largest economies.
“China firmly opposes this and will resolutely take countermeasures to safeguard its rights and interests,” stated China’s Ministry of Commerce on Thursday morning.
The ministry criticized the tariffs, describing them as a “typical unilateral bullying practice.” It urged the United States to revoke the tariffs and resolve trade differences through equitable dialogue.
“The United States has imposed the so-called ‘reciprocal tariffs’ based on subjective and unilateral assessments, which contradicts international trade rules and severely undermines the legitimate rights and interests of the involved parties,” the statement added.
Trump’s announcement includes an additional 34% in so-called “reciprocal” tariffs on top of the existing 20% duties on all Chinese imports to the U.S.
Since taking office in January, Trump has already implemented two rounds of 10% additional duties on all Chinese imports, claiming they were necessary to combat the flow of illicit fentanyl from China into the U.S.
Beijing responded to these tariffs promptly, albeit moderately, by imposing retaliatory tariffs on various U.S. imports, including agricultural products and fuel, while also taking measures against certain American companies and enhancing export controls.
During his address in the White House Rose Garden, Trump stated, “I have great respect for President Xi (Jinping) of China and for China itself, but they have been taking tremendous advantage of us. They know exactly what’s happening and… they’re going to fight.”
In addition, Trump announced another 10% duty on all imports to the U.S., along with specific measures targeting several Asian countries, causing market and business apprehension worldwide.
