Beijing — China has issued a strong statement condemning countries engaging in tariff negotiations with the United States, warning of retaliatory actions if such talks come at Beijing’s expense. The China warning on Trump tariffs reflects growing frustration over ongoing shifts in global trade alliances triggered by US protectionist policies.
The statement, released by the Chinese Ministry of Commerce and quoted by AFP, criticized nations pursuing “short-term interests” and warned that compromise would be seen as dishonorable. “Peace will not be achieved through appeasement,” the spokesperson said.
The tensions come amid escalating US tariffs, with President Donald Trump imposing duties as high as 245% on Chinese goods. Nearly all trading partners face a base 10% tariff, while China bears the brunt of multiple layers of punitive levies.
Beijing has responded in kind, raising tariffs up to 125% on US imports and accusing the Trump administration of trying to isolate China economically. Chinese officials assert that countries cooperating with Washington risk becoming collateral damage in a geopolitical standoff.
This China warning on Trump tariffs may have been prompted by Trump’s recent remarks claiming communication channels between Beijing and Washington have reopened for possible negotiations. China’s sharp rebuttal casts doubt on such claims.
The broader message is clear: Beijing is positioning itself as an immovable actor unwilling to make concessions under pressure — signaling turbulence ahead for global trade diplomacy.
