The Chinese government issued a stern condemnation of the United States’ decision to impose “reciprocal tariffs,” calling the move an act of unilateralism, protectionism, and economic bullying. The tariffs, which President Donald Trump announced earlier this week, include a 10 percent baseline levy on all imports from U.S. trading partners, with higher rates imposed on certain countries. These tariffs, set to take effect on April 5 and 9, prompted a swift response from China, which announced it would impose a 34 percent tariff on all U.S. products starting April 10.
In its statement, the Chinese government expressed firm opposition to what it described as the U.S. exploiting tariffs to undermine the global economic and trade order. The U.S. move, according to China, prioritizes American interests over the common good of the international community, advancing a zero-sum agenda that disregards the legitimate development rights of other nations. China called this a form of economic hegemonism, which it believes will face broad opposition from the global community.
China, while defending its position, emphasized its commitment to global economic cooperation. Despite the rising trade tensions, the Chinese government reiterated its resolve to expand openness and provide a better business environment. As the world’s second-largest economy and consumer goods market, China pledged to continue advancing high-level trade and investment liberalization, fostering an internationally-oriented, market-based environment that would benefit all countries.
The statement stressed that economic globalization is an inevitable path for global development, advocating for a multilateral trading system centered on the World Trade Organization (WTO). It argued that no country benefits from trade wars or tariff conflicts, asserting that protectionism is not a viable solution.
In conclusion, China called for collective international efforts to ensure an open, inclusive, and balanced global economy. It urged nations to reject unilateralism and protectionism, advocating for true multilateralism to maintain global peace and prosperity.
