China Declares Readiness for Trade War Showdown with US
China has issued a warning signal, asserting it is "not afraid" of engaging in a trade war with the United States. This comes in response to Trump's recent remarks, urging Beijing to take proactive steps toward the negotiation table. Despite heightened tensions, China continues to emphasize the importance of dialogue in resolving trade disagreements.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian stated on Wednesday that the United States should cease exerting extreme pressure and refrain from using threats or blackmail if it genuinely seeks a resolution through dialogue and negotiation. He emphasized the importance of engaging with China on the principles of equality, respect, and mutual benefit.
A spokesperson emphasized China’s unwavering stance, stating that “there is no victor in a tariff or trade conflict.” They further asserted that while China is not seeking confrontation, it remains unafraid to engage if necessary.
The administration led by Trump introduced comprehensive tariffs affecting both allied nations and adversaries, with the most stringent actions concentrated on China, resulting in 145% duties on numerous Chinese imports. In response, Beijing has retaliated by imposing 125% tariffs on American products, intensifying the trade dispute.
Trump initially implemented tariffs on Chinese imports, attributing the move to alleged Chinese participation in the fentanyl trade. The administration has subsequently raised these tariffs significantly, now imposing duties as high as 145% on a wide range of Chinese products, in response to what Washington considers inequitable trade practices.
On Tuesday, Trump declared, “The ball is in China’s court. China needs to make a deal with us.” In response, Beijing stated on Wednesday that “it was the US that initiated this tariff war.”
Earlier this week, Chinese President Xi Jinping cautioned that a trade war would result in “no winners,” emphasizing that “protectionism will lead nowhere.”
China has vowed to “fight until the end” should the United States persist in escalating the ongoing trade dispute, inviting the European Union to unite with Beijing in opposition to what it deems Washington’s “bullying” tactics.
