China has strongly condemned the latest wave of tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump, calling for their immediate removal while vowing countermeasures to protect its economic interests.
In a statement on Thursday, China’s Ministry of Commerce criticized the sweeping tariffs, arguing that they disregard the principles of fair trade and undermine years of multilateral negotiations.
“China firmly opposes these unilateral measures and will take necessary steps to safeguard its rights and interests,” the ministry declared.
Trump’s announcement includes a 34% tariff on Chinese imports, in addition to the 20% levy imposed earlier this year, bringing total new tariffs to 54%. Chinese goods will also face a 10% baseline tariff, adding further pressure on exporters.
The measures, set to take effect in phases starting April 5, are expected to intensify trade tensions between the world’s two largest economies.
Impact on Global Trade
Trump’s tariffs are not limited to China—other major trading partners, including India, Vietnam, and Mexico, are also facing significant duties ranging from 24% to 46%.
Analysts suggest this could disrupt global supply chains and diminish the advantage of shifting production away from China.
“Many firms had been moving their operations to alternative markets like Vietnam and Mexico to sidestep previous US sanctions, but these countries are now being hit with high tariffs as well,” said Ruby Osman, a trade expert at the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change.
While the tariffs may encourage China to strengthen trade ties with other regions, such as Europe and Africa, experts argue that no market can fully replace the US, which accounts for over $400 billion in annual Chinese exports.
“Trump’s tariffs will undoubtedly hurt certain Chinese industries, but they won’t cripple China’s economy,” said William Hurst, a professor at the University of Cambridge. “Beijing has long anticipated such moves and has adjusted its economic strategy accordingly.”
China’s Response and Future Strategy
China has been preparing for a potential escalation in trade disputes. Its government has pledged increased fiscal stimulus, additional debt issuance, and a stronger focus on domestic consumption to offset any negative impact.
“Beijing’s response has been calculated,” Osman noted. “The relatively restrained stimulus measures announced in March suggest that China has been keeping additional countermeasures in reserve, should the situation escalate further.”
There is also speculation that President Xi Jinping and Trump could meet in June to discuss trade tensions. Analysts believe both leaders are navigating a delicate balance between demonstrating strength and avoiding further economic instability.
“Trump thrives on pressure and sudden diplomatic maneuvers, while Xi prefers a methodical and disciplined approach,” said Craig Singleton, a senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies. “Neither wants to be seen as backing down, but prolonging the standoff could deepen the crisis.”
As tensions mount, the global economic landscape remains uncertain, with businesses and investors bracing for potential fallout from the latest trade war escalation.
Source: Agencies
BDST: 1016 HRS, APR 03, 2025
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