China Responds to US Tariffs with Strong Criticism, Promises to Defend Interests

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian has issued a sharp rebuke of the recently imposed US tariffs on imports, characterizing them as "economic blackmail" while affirming China's determination to protect its economic interests against what Beijing views as unjustified trade aggression.

China Responds to US Tariffs

During a press conference addressing the controversial new tariffs, Lin responded to questions about possible high-level talks between Chinese and US leadership, stating: "We have stressed more than once that pressuring or threatening China is not the right way to engage with us. China will firmly safeguard its legitimate rights and interests."

The spokesperson emphasized that the US tariff increases on China and other trading partners "seriously violate the legitimate rights and interests of countries, breach World Trade Organization (WTO) rules, undermine the rule-based multilateral trading system, and destabilize the global economic order."

"The Chinese government strongly deplores and firmly rejects this," Lin declared. "What the US has done is a typical move of unilateralism, protectionism, and economic bullying. It will hurt the US itself as well as others."

"The Chinese government strongly deplores and firmly rejects this," Lin declared. "What the US has done is a typical move of unilateralism, protectionism, and economic bullying. It will hurt the US itself as well as others."

Escalating Trade Tensions

The dispute marks a significant escalation in the ongoing trade conflict between the world's two largest economies. Last week, the United States implemented broad tariffs on imported goods from numerous countries worldwide, with rates ranging from 10% to 50%. These actions triggered immediate negative reactions in global financial markets, with stock indices experiencing sharp declines.

Specifically targeting China, the US initially imposed a 34% import tariff, which Beijing promptly matched with equivalent 34% duties on American imports. President Trump subsequently increased the tariff rate on Chinese goods from 34% to 50%, further intensifying the trade standoff.

In response, the Chinese Embassy in Washington issued a statement echoing Lin's sentiments that "pressure or threats against China are an incorrect way to engage."

Global Impact and Response

Chinese officials have criticized the new tariffs for their destabilizing effect on global markets and have urged the United States to engage in consultations rather than unilateral actions.

The impact of these tariff increases extends far beyond US-China relations. According to US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, nearly 70 countries worldwide have contacted Washington requesting negotiations regarding the new tariffs, highlighting the global concern over potential disruption to international trade.

As tensions continue to mount, market analysts are closely monitoring both countries' next moves and the potential ripple effects throughout the global economy.