Amid escalating trade tensions, China has reiterated its determination to defend its economic interests against the latest U.S. tariff threats. Former U.S. President Donald Trump recently proposed imposing an additional 50% duty on select Chinese imports via social media, warning of total tariff rates reaching 104% if Beijing maintains planned countermeasures. This follows China's announcement of 34% tariffs on specific American goods in response to earlier U.S. trade actions.
Chinese authorities characterized the move as economic coercion, with the Ministry of Commerce stating: "If the U.S. insists on its own way, China will fight to the end." Analysts note the country's strengthened economic resilience through structural reforms, reducing foreign trade dependence from 64.2% in 2006 to under 35% today. Domestic consumption now drives over 70% of economic growth.
While U.S. exports accounted for 19.2% of Chinese trade in 2018, this figure dropped to 14.7% by 2024, reflecting diversified global partnerships. Experts suggest China's industrial upgrading and domestic market expansion provide strategic buffers against external pressures.
The developments highlight ongoing challenges in cross-Pacific economic relations, with observers monitoring potential impacts on global supply chains and market stability. Beijing maintains its countermeasures aim to protect national development interests while keeping dialogue options open.
