#USChinaTensions

Tariff dispute

China promises retaliation against countries that prioritize agreements with the US

China will take retaliatory measures against nations that enter into trade agreements with the United States. The representation of the Ministry of Commerce of China stated in a statement this Monday (21) that the country will adopt retaliatory measures against nations that sign trade agreements with the United States to the detriment of Chinese interests.

The statement was made following a query about possible pressure from the White House for countries to withdraw investments from China in exchange for tariff advantages. While acknowledging the right of each nation to seek partnerships, the representative emphasized that any attempt to weaken ties with China will be met with firmness.

The statement also criticized the US for promoting what it called the “law of the jungle” in global trade, accusing them of adopting hegemonic practices and economic intimidation.

In recent weeks, tensions between China and the United States have escalated due to the intensification of the trade war between the two countries. New tariffs announced by the US against Beijing could reach 245%. The Chinese government classified the US measures as “economic bullying” and “maximum pressure,” and warned that unilateralism and protectionism will bring losses to all countries involved.

China also called for a meeting at the UN Security Council to discuss the impact of the tariffs and defended the preservation of international trade rules, harshly criticizing Donald Trump's economic policy.