Beijing Condemns U.S. Tariff Hike, Warns of Retaliation

China sharply rebuked the United States on Thursday after President Donald Trump announced a steep increase in tariffs on Chinese imports, raising the rate to 125%. Beijing accused Washington of undermining global trade norms and warned of serious consequences.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian stated that the U.S. actions “go against the whole world” and would “seriously damage the rules-based multilateral trading system.” He emphasized that China would not tolerate infringements on its national interests, adding, “China will not sit back and let the legitimate rights and interests of the Chinese people be deprived.”

Commerce Ministry spokeswoman He Yongqian echoed the warning, urging the U.S. to engage in constructive dialogue based on equality and mutual respect. However, she made clear that if talks failed, China would be prepared to “fight to the end.”

Trump’s tariff announcement came alongside a 90-day suspension of increased duties on other trading partners. In contrast to those who sought negotiation, Trump accused China of disrespecting international markets. “Based on the lack of respect that China has shown to the World’s Markets, I am hereby raising the Tariff… to 125%, effective immediately,” he wrote on Truth Social.