China has introduced a series of countermeasures in response to the latest U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods, marking a sharp escalation in bilateral trade tensions. The measures, announced on Tuesday, include expanded export controls and retaliatory tariffs targeting key American agricultural and industrial imports.
Export Restrictions and Entity Lists
Fifteen U.S. entities, including defense contractor Leidos, were added to China\u2019s export control list, barring them from receiving dual-use items. Ten companies, such as TCOM, were placed on the \u201cunreliable entity list,\u201d restricting their trade and investment activities in China. Gene sequencing firm Illumina will face export bans starting February 2025.
Tariffs on US Imports
Effective March 10, 2025, China will impose additional tariffs of 10-15% on U.S. agricultural products, including soybeans, pork, and poultry, as well as dairy and seafood. Current bonded shipments will remain exempt until April 12. The Customs Tariff Commission emphasized the measures align with WTO rules.
WTO Case and Diplomatic Clash
China has filed a WTO dispute against the U.S. tariffs, which Washington justified as addressing fentanyl-related concerns. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian dismissed the claims, stating the U.S. is \u201cmisplacing blame\u201d for its domestic opioid crisis. \u201cChina does not fear coercion,\u201d Lin said, urging Washington to resolve differences through dialogue.
The moves signal hardened positions on both sides, with analysts warning prolonged disputes could disrupt global supply chains and agricultural markets.
