Beijing Calls for Cooperation Amid New Wave of Tariffs
China has called for renewed dialogue with the United States to ease escalating trade tensions, as both economic giants continue to impose retaliatory tariffs on each other’s imports.
Speaking at a weekly press conference on Thursday, Chinese Commerce Ministry spokeswoman He Yongqian emphasized the need for constructive engagement, stressing that any negotiations must be rooted in “mutual respect, equality, and mutual benefit.”
“Threats and intimidation can only be counterproductive,” Yongqian warned. “It is hoped that the United States and China will work together… to return to the correct track of resolving issues through dialogue and consultation.”
The trade dispute has intensified since U.S. President Donald Trump, after retaking office in January, ramped up tariffs on major trading partners—including China, Canada, and Mexico—citing concerns over fentanyl trafficking and other economic grievances.
Earlier this month, Trump escalated a previous 10% blanket tariff on Chinese imports to 20%, prompting Beijing to retaliate with levies of up to 15% on key U.S. agricultural exports, including soybeans, pork, and chicken.
China, the world’s leading steel producer, also vowed to take “all necessary measures” to defend its economic interests following Washington’s latest tariffs on steel and aluminum imports.
With tensions mounting, Beijing’s call for diplomacy signals an urgent push to prevent further economic fallout in an already volatile global market.
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