China Warns US Against ‘Threats and Coercion’ amid rising tariff tensions

English , International - بین الاقوامی , Snippets , / Wednesday, April 23rd, 2025

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Sources Anadolu Agency
Beijing, April 23, 2025; China on Wednesday cautioned the United States to abandon its strategy of pressure and coercion if it genuinely seeks to resolve the ongoing tariff dispute through dialogue.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said in a press briefing that negotiations must be based on “equality, mutual respect, and reciprocity,” criticizing Washington’s recent moves as contradictory. “Saying one thing while applying maximum pressure is not the right way to engage with China, nor will it work,” Guo stated, according to Global Times.
The remarks came in response to US President Donald Trump’s comments that the newly imposed 145% tariffs on Chinese goods are “very high” but “won’t be zero,” suggesting they may be reduced. However, Trump has also warned that tariffs on Chinese exports could rise to 245%.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent added to the debate, stating the current trade restrictions resemble an embargo. While asserting that “decoupling is not the objective,” he said a full trade resolution might be achieved within two to three years.
Earlier this month, the US announced a 90-day pause on “reciprocal” tariffs for dozens of countries excluding China further escalating the trade row. Instead, Washington raised duties on Chinese imports to levels not seen in years, sparking outrage in Beijing.
The escalating rhetoric and punitive measures have deepened the rift between the two economic giants, with no clear breakthrough in sight. China continues to urge the US to return to constructive engagement rather than intensifying tensions through unilateral actions.