China Warns Against Trade Deals with US at Its Expense
China has cautioned countries against entering into broader economic agreements with the United States that could be detrimental to China's interests. This warning escalates the ongoing trade tensions between the world's two largest economies.
Key Points:
- Equal Footing: China respects other nations resolving economic and trade differences with the U.S. through equitable consultations.
- Firm Opposition: China will strongly oppose any deals made at its expense.
- Countermeasures: Beijing is prepared to take resolute and reciprocal actions if countries pursue deals disadvantaging China.
A spokesperson from China's Commerce Ministry addressed reports that the U.S. administration is planning to pressure countries to limit trade with China in exchange for tariff exemptions.
The spokesperson stated, "The United States has abused tariffs on all trading partners under the banner of so-called ‘equivalence’, while also forcing all parties to start so-called ‘reciprocal tariffs’ negotiations with them." The ministry emphasized China's determination and capability to protect its rights and interests, expressing willingness to strengthen solidarity with all parties.
Bloomberg reported that the U.S. administration is preparing to pressure nations seeking tariff reductions or exemptions to curb trade with China, potentially including monetary sanctions.
Background
Earlier in April, U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer mentioned that nearly 50 countries had approached him to discuss the additional tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump.
Several bilateral talks on tariffs have occurred since then. Japan is considering increasing soybean and rice imports as part of its discussions with the U.S., while Indonesia plans to increase U.S. food and commodities imports while reducing orders from other nations.
Trump paused the historic tariffs announced on dozens of countries on April 2, except for those on China, singling out the world’s second-largest economy for the most significant levies.
China’s President Xi Jinping recently visited three Southeast Asian countries to strengthen regional ties, advocating for trade partners to resist unilateral bullying. "There are no winners in trade wars and tariff wars," Xi stated in an article published in Vietnamese media, without specifically mentioning the United States.