China threatens countermeasures as Trump’s tariffs escalate trade tensions 

On Thursday, Beijing issued a strong response, threatening countermeasures to safeguard its interests and accusing the U.S. of violating international trade rules.

Trump’s latest tariff hike, announced on Wednesday, imposes an additional 34% levy on Chinese imports, raising total duties on many products to over 50%.

This follows earlier measures, including 20% tariffs and two tranches of 10% additional duties imposed since Trump’s return to power in January. The White House justified these actions as necessary to combat the flow of illicit fentanyl from China to the U.S.

China’s Ministry of Commerce condemned the tariffs, describing them as unilateral and subjective assessments that undermine international trade norms.

In a statement issued Thursday morning, the ministry declared, “China firmly opposes this and will resolutely take countermeasures to safeguard its own rights and interests.” It further urged Washington to resolve disputes through dialogue, warning of retaliatory actions if the measures are not withdrawn.

The ministry added, “The United States has drawn the so-called ‘reciprocal tariffs’ based on subjective and unilateral assessments, which are inconsistent with international trade rules and seriously damage the legitimate rights and interests of relevant parties.”

The tariffs, which include a 10% baseline tax on all imports, a 25% levy on foreign-made cars, and reciprocal duties calculated at 50% of other nations’ rates on U.S. exports, are among the most extensive in American history.

However, Trump’s additional 10% duties on all imports and country-specific measures targeting Asian nations have rattled markets globally.

This initiative aims to promote both regional and global trade, providing a united front against the economic disruptions caused by Trump’s tariffs.