China warned other countries Monday against doing business with the United States at China’s expense.
After President Donald Trump announced on April 2nd that he would impose tariffs on almost all American trading partners, governments, including those from Taiwan, Japan, and South Korea, began negotiations with Washington. After the markets panicked, import taxes were quickly suspended against most countries. However, he increased tariffs on China.
China has issued a statement saying that it is “firmly opposed” to any parties that reach a deal against China’s interests. China will not accept this and will take resolute countermeasures. China is determined to protect its rights and interests.
Scott Bessent, U.S. Treasury secretary, said in an interview earlier this month that the countries currently negotiating with the U.S. on trade deals should “approach China together as a group”.
In a statement attributed to an anonymous spokesperson, the ministry stated that the U.S. tariffs on other countries were economic bullying.
It added, “Appeasement can’t bring peace, and compromises cannot earn respect. Sacrificing the interests of others to satisfy one’s temporary selfish needs is similar to stealing the skin of a tiger. This will only fail on both sides and cause harm to others without benefiting them.”
China has said that it is open to dialogue with Washington, but no dates have been set.
Trump targeted China with his highest tariffs. He imposed several rounds of duties totaling 145% on Chinese imports. Beijing has responded with a tariff of 125% against U.S. imports.
Tariffs have scared exporters, slowed shipments, and threatened to drag down the global economy.
