China issued a stern warning on Monday, cautioning countries against forging trade deals with the United States that undermine Beijing’s economic interests, amid intensifying tensions in the ongoing US-China tariff war.
In a statement from its Commerce Ministry, China vowed to take “resolute and reciprocal countermeasures” if any nation enters agreements with the US that compromise Chinese interests.
The warning follows reports that the Trump administration is pressuring allies to limit trade with China in exchange for tariff exemptions.
“Appeasement will not bring peace, and compromise will not earn respect,” a ministry spokesperson said, labelling such tactics as “selfish” and a violation of international trade norms.
The Trump administration has recently imposed tariffs of up to 145% on Chinese imports, with retaliatory duties of 125% from Beijing.
While a blanket 10% tariff affects other countries, China remains the primary target in Washington’s broader effort to reset trade terms.
Bloomberg and the Wall Street Journal earlier reported that Washington may leverage ongoing negotiations to compel nations to adopt stricter trade stances toward China. Japanese and South Korean delegations are among those reportedly engaging with US officials.
China emphasised its readiness to defend its economic interests and criticized the US for abusing tariff mechanisms under the guise of reciprocity.
Meanwhile, President Donald Trump hinted at possible negotiations with Beijing. “I think we’re going to make a very good deal with China,” he said, though China has not confirmed formal dialogue.
Beijing also plans to raise the issue at an informal UN Security Council meeting this week, accusing the US of economic coercion and destabilising global trade.
China maintains that it supports a fair, rules-based trading system and urges all nations to resist pressure that fuels economic fragmentation.
