Beijing has vowed to implement countermeasures following U.S. President Donald Trump’s announcement of additional tariffs on Chinese imports, intensifying the ongoing trade conflict between the world’s two largest economies.
The United States had already imposed a 20% tariff on Chinese goods, triggering a retaliatory response from China.
However, Trump’s latest decision, unveiled on Wednesday, introduces an additional 34% tariff, pushing total duties on many Chinese products beyond 50%.
China Condemns U.S. Tariff Hikes
In response, China’s Ministry of Commerce strongly condemned the move, stating that the new tariffs violate international trade regulations. The ministry accused the U.S. of making unilateral and subjective assessments, describing the measures as an act of economic coercion.
“The U.S. must immediately remove these unlawful tariffs and engage in constructive dialogue. Otherwise, China will take firm countermeasures to safeguard its rights and interests,” the ministry warned.
Broader Implications of Trump’s Trade Policies
Trump’s tariff escalation is part of a broader strategy that includes a blanket 10% tariff on most U.S. imports, with even steeper penalties on goods from countries with significant trade surpluses with the United States. The move signals a renewed push for trade protectionism, a hallmark of Trump’s economic policies aimed at reducing America’s trade deficits.
As tensions escalate, markets are closely watching Beijing’s next move, with analysts warning that prolonged trade disputes could disrupt global supply chains and slow economic growth in both countries.
