Washington: Tensions between the United States and China escalated further on Monday, after former President Donald Trump threatened to impose an additional 50 percent in tariffs on Chinese goods if Beijing proceeds with its proposed countermeasures in the ongoing trade dispute.
In response to Trump’s warning, China issued a strong statement rejecting the use of pressure and threats as a means of negotiation. Liu Pengyu, spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in Washington, emphasized that such tactics are not conducive to constructive engagement.
“We have stressed more than once that pressuring or threatening China is not a right way to engage with us,” Liu said in a statement to AFP. “China will firmly safeguard its legitimate rights and interests.”
The statement underscores Beijing’s position that it will not yield to unilateral demands and will defend its economic sovereignty amid growing tensions with the U.S.
Trump’s tariff threat follows China’s announcement of retaliatory measures in response to existing American duties on Chinese exports. The former president, who has long criticized China’s trade practices, said the new tariffs would target a broader range of Chinese products unless Beijing backs down from its proposed actions.
The renewed rhetoric marks another chapter in the trade friction that has defined U.S.-China relations in recent years, with both nations exchanging rounds of tariffs that have impacted global markets and supply chains.
While no official confirmation has been given regarding the timeline or specific goods that would be affected by the new tariffs, analysts warn that the continued escalation could further strain the economic ties between the world’s two largest economies.
China has consistently called for dialogue and mutual respect in resolving trade disputes, advocating for negotiations based on equality and fairness.
As of now, neither side has shown clear signs of de-escalation, raising concerns among international observers about the potential fallout for global trade stability.