China’s foreign ministry spokesperson criticized the approach of threats and pressure towards China, following U.S. President Donald Trump’s implementation of “reciprocal tariffs” which were deemed as bullying. The spokesperson, Lin Jian, condemned the tariffs as “typical unilateralism and protectionism, and economic bullying”, stating that they only serve the interests of the U.S. at the expense of other countries.
Last week, Trump imposed a 34% tariff on Chinese goods as part of broader tariffs on U.S. trade partners, resulting in a total of 54% duties on China this year. In response, China implemented countermeasures.
Lin refrained from confirming whether China would engage in negotiations with the U.S., as U.S. customs agents began enforcing a unilateral 10% tariff on imports from various countries.
Lin highlighted the detrimental impact of U.S. tariffs on countries, particularly those in the Global South, citing the widening wealth gap and the disproportionate effect on less developed nations. He emphasized the importance of consultation, joint efforts, and genuine multilateralism in addressing trade issues.
Furthermore, Lin urged countries to unite against unilateralism and protectionism, advocating for the preservation of the international and multilateral trading systems based on values upheld by the United Nations and World Trade Organization.
(This article is published from a syndicated feed and has not been altered by NDTV staff, except for the headline.)
