Amid escalating trade tensions, China has urged the U.S. to cease what it describes as “threatening and blackmailing” tactics to facilitate constructive dialogue. Beijing affirmed its commitment to protecting its interests in the face of ongoing pressure from Washington.
The trade dispute has seen both nations implement reciprocal tariff increases, with the U.S. reaching a cumulative rate of 145% last week. The White House recently suggested that tariffs on Chinese goods could reach as high as 245%, placing the onus on China to act.
Foreign Ministry Spokesman Lin Jian stated that if the U.S. genuinely seeks resolution through negotiation, it must abandon its aggressive pressure and “stop threatening and blackmailing.”
The spokesperson reiterated that the U.S. initiated the tariff war and that China’s countermeasures are designed to protect its legitimate rights and interests.
China’s retaliatory measures have included raising tariffs to 125% on American imports and suspending exports of rare-earth metals and magnets, crucial for tech and military sectors. Bloomberg also reported that Chinese airlines have been instructed to halt acceptance of Boeing jets and parts.
President Trump has previously commented that the Chinese are eager to make a deal but are unsure of how to proceed.
Chinese authorities maintain that negotiations with the U.S. are still possible, but must be based on mutual respect. The Ministry of Commerce previously dismissed the U.S.’s tariffs as a meaningless “numbers game” and vowed to “fight to the end.”