China Slams US Tariffs as Bullying Tactics

Beijing sharply criticized newly imposed U.S. tariffs Monday, labeling them “economic bullying” and a counterproductive approach to international trade. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian condemned President Trump’s recent decision to add a 34% tariff on Chinese goods – bringing total duties this year to 54% – as an example of “unilateralism and protectionism.”

Lin asserted that the tariffs serve only U.S. interests and come at the expense of other nations, particularly those in the developing world. He highlighted the potential for widening economic disparities both within and between countries, arguing that the U.S. is effectively hindering the development of nations in the Global South.

While deferring questions regarding potential negotiations with the U.S. to other relevant authorities, Lin strongly advocated for a collaborative approach to trade. He urged all nations to prioritize consultation, shared development, and “genuine multilateralism” as alternatives to protectionist measures.

The spokesperson called for a unified opposition to unilateralism and protectionism, emphasizing the importance of upholding the international system and the multilateral trading system as defined by the United Nations and the World Trade Organization. The imposition of a 10% tariff on imports from numerous countries, already being collected by U.S. customs agents since Saturday, further underscores what Beijing views as a damaging and inequitable trade policy.

This escalating tariff dispute highlights a fundamental disagreement over the principles of international trade. While the U.S. appears to be prioritizing domestic economic concerns through protectionist measures, China maintains that a collaborative, rules-based system is essential for global prosperity. The long-term consequences of this standoff remain to be seen, but the current trajectory threatens to further fragment the global economy and exacerbate existing inequalities.