China has strongly criticised the United States’ latest round of tariffs, labeling them as examples of "economic bullying" and warning that threats and pressure are not the appropriate way to engage with Beijing.
During a press briefing on Monday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian condemned the new tariffs introduced by former U.S. President Donald Trump. Lin described the measures as “unilateralism and protectionism” that serve only U.S. interests while harming other countries - particularly those in the Global South.
Trump recently announced a 34% increase in duties on Chinese imports, raising the total tariff burden on Chinese goods to 54% for this year. The move is part of a broader campaign of steep tariffs affecting numerous U.S. trade partners. In response, China has launched its own countermeasures.
Lin avoided directly commenting on the possibility of renewed trade negotiations with Washington, saying the matter would fall under the jurisdiction of other authorities.
Since Saturday, U.S. customs officials have begun collecting a blanket 10% tariff on all imports from several nations. Lin criticised this policy, arguing that such practices deny developing nations their right to economic growth and widen income inequality both within and between countries.
Calling for international unity, Lin urged nations to reject all forms of unilateralism and protectionism and instead uphold the principles of mutual consultation, shared development, and “true multilateralism.” He emphasised the need to protect global institutions like the United Nations and the World Trade Organization and to preserve the international trade framework.