8 April: In a sharp escalation of trade tensions, China has declared it will “fight to the end” and implement countermeasures to protect its national interests after U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to impose an additional 50% tariff on Chinese imports.
In a statement released Tuesday, China’s Ministry of Commerce condemned the U.S.’s proposed “reciprocal tariffs” as baseless and labelled them a form of “unilateral bullying.” The ministry said that China’s previously announced retaliatory tariffs were legitimate actions aimed at defending its sovereignty, economic development, and maintaining a stable global trade environment. Officials also warned that further countermeasures could be introduced if the situation deteriorates.
“The U.S. threat to escalate tariffs is a serious misstep and further reveals its coercive tactics,” the ministry said. “China will never accept this pressure. If Washington insists on moving forward, we will fight to the end.”
The escalating rhetoric comes amid mounting concerns among global analysts and investors over a potential full-scale trade war. Trump’s Monday threat, posted on Truth Social, warned that if China does not roll back its recently increased 34% tariffs — which the U.S. deems part of a pattern of long-standing trade abuses — his administration would move ahead with a new wave of tariffs effective April 9. These would be in addition to existing tariffs, including 20% introduced for fentanyl-related sanctions and the 34% levies from the prior week.
If fully implemented, the cumulative U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods would soar to 104%, raising fears of further disruptions in global supply chains and price hikes for American consumers. Experts also caution that such a move could push China to redirect its exports to other regions, particularly the European Union, as part of a broader strategy to diversify its trade relationships.
Public sentiment in China reflects a mixture of concern and confidence. While many citizens are finding it difficult to track the rapid pace of policy changes, they remain hopeful in the government’s ability to manage the crisis. Wu Qi, a construction worker in Beijing, commented, “Trump keeps changing his statements. But we believe in our country.” Others, particularly business owners, are more anxious. Paul Wang, who exports stainless steel accessories to Europe, is already exploring alternative markets. Chemical importers like Jessi Huang and Yang Aijia fear the tariffs could lead to layoffs or even closure.
China is far from out of options. Experts say it could retaliate by halting cooperation on fentanyl control, tightening agricultural import quotas, or targeting U.S. service sectors such as finance and legal firms operating in China.
In 2024, U.S.-China trade reached approximately $582 billion, with the U.S. goods and services trade deficit with China ranging between $263 billion and $295 billion.
China’s Foreign Ministry also weighed in, with spokesperson Lin Jian stating that Washington’s actions show a lack of intent for honest negotiations. “If the U.S. truly wants dialogue, it must demonstrate mutual respect, equality, and benefit,” he said.
Meanwhile, in Hong Kong, Chief Executive John Lee criticized the U.S. tariffs as “bullying tactics,” warning that the moves have disrupted global trade and added economic uncertainty. He reaffirmed Hong Kong’s commitment to strengthening economic ties with mainland China, expanding free trade agreements, and supporting local businesses impacted by the trade fallout.
