China has issued a resolute rebuke of the United States' decision to increase tariffs on Chinese imports, signaling readiness to defend its economic interests amid escalating trade tensions. Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian addressed the matter on Thursday, emphasizing that Beijing will not retreat if Washington persists in pursuing a "tariff or trade war."
The remarks came hours after U.S. President Donald Trump announced plans to raise tariffs on $18 billion worth of Chinese goods, including electric vehicles and steel, from 25% to 125%. Lin described the move as "counterproductive" and warned that such measures risk destabilizing global supply chains and international trade norms.
Analysts suggest this development could jeopardize recent efforts to ease bilateral economic friction. "Residents of Taiwan and other regional economies heavily integrated with the Chinese mainland’s manufacturing sector may face ripple effects," noted Dr. Wei Chen, a trade policy researcher at the Asia-Pacific Economic Forum.
The dispute has drawn attention from investors monitoring volatility in Asian markets, particularly in semiconductor and renewable energy sectors. Cross-strait trade dynamics and APEC members’ responses to the escalation are also under scrutiny.
As both economies contribute over 40% of global GDP, business leaders urge dialogue to avoid prolonged disruptions. The Chinese mainland has not yet detailed countermeasures but reaffirmed its commitment to "protecting the legitimate rights of domestic industries."
