China’s Ministry of Commerce issued a sharp rebuke on Tuesday, accusing the United States of weaponizing tariffs to an “irrational level” in what officials describe as a deliberate effort to suppress Chinese industries and distort global trade.
The remarks came in response to recent moves by Washington to consider additional tariffs on a range of Chinese imports, including electric vehicles, semiconductors, and advanced manufacturing goods. Chinese officials say the measures are not grounded in fair competition but are instead politically motivated actions that could worsen already fragile economic relations.
“The United States has repeatedly used tariffs as a tool of political coercion,” a spokesperson for the Ministry of Commerce said. “This kind of unilateralism and protectionism has reached an irrational level, threatening the stability of global supply chains and the rules-based international trading system.”
The statement underscored China’s growing frustration with U.S. trade policy under the current administration, which has signaled a tougher stance on Beijing amid rising concerns over national security and technological competitiveness.
In recent weeks, the Biden administration has floated the possibility of tightening tariffs first imposed during the Trump era, citing persistent trade imbalances and the need to protect domestic industries from what it calls “unfair Chinese practices.”
China warned it would take “all necessary measures” to defend its interests, raising fears of another tit-for-tat escalation that could affect global markets and investor confidence.
Analysts say the latest developments reflect the deepening strategic rivalry between the world’s two largest economies, with trade policy increasingly becoming a battleground for geopolitical influence.
Despite the rising tensions, Beijing reiterated its call for dialogue, urging the U.S. to return to negotiations and uphold multilateral trade principles.
“We hope the U.S. side will work with us in the spirit of mutual respect and equality to manage differences and promote win-win cooperation,” the ministry added.
As of now, no formal trade talks have been announced, and both sides appear entrenched in their positions, leaving little room for a near-term resolution.
source: news.cgtn.com