The United States imposed a 10 percent tariff on Chinese goods on Tuesday, sparking a sharp rebuke from China’s commerce ministry, which labeled the move as "vile" and "unilateralist." President Donald Trump indicated that these tariffs could potentially increase, worsening already strained global trade relations. The development comes as Trump temporarily suspended a similar threat of 25 percent tariffs on Mexico and Canada, contingent upon their agreement to enhance border enforcement efforts.
China's commerce ministry, represented by spokesperson He Yongqian at a news conference, expressed severe disapproval of the US tariffs, emphasizing their detrimental impact on international trade ties. Despite the tension, He Yongqian affirmed China's openness to resolving the situation through dialogue, while also stating that China will take all necessary steps to protect its rights and interests.
In parallel, the US has criticized China as a primary source of fentanyl precursor chemicals entering Mexico. In response, China insists it has undertaken significant measures to control the chemical and illicit drug trade, highlighting its proactive stance against these issues.
China plans to contest the tariffs at the World Trade Organization, seeking a formal challenge to the US actions. The ministry further emphasized China's readiness to collaborate with other nations to combat unilateralism and trade protectionism. This approach aims to gather international support against what China perceives as unjust trade practices.
The context of US tariffs on Mexico and Canada was also addressed during the announcement. Trump's suspension of higher tariffs against these two countries is seen as a temporary measure, underlining the interconnected nature of US trade policies impacting multiple global partners.
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