China announced on Friday a new tariff increase on imports from the United States, raising rates to a125% in response to the latest trade measures implemented by the Trump administration, warning that there will be no dialogue under pressure.
The decision marks a new episode of tension in the escalating trade war between both powers, during which the Asian giant has chosen to maintain a diplomatic tone.
China has already announced that it would not raise tariffs to more than 125% because it simply makes no economic sense and it will not engage in absurdity.
In a statement, it was specified that tariffs have already rendered U.S. products in China without a real market, so any further increase would lack economic sense, be "irrelevant," and "end up being a mockery in the history of the global economy," reported the EFE news agency.
The Customs Tariff Committee of the Council of State confirmed that the measure will come into effect on April 12, and stated that Washington's policy - which raised tariffs on the Asian nation by 145% on Thursday - "seriously violates the rules of international trade" and constitutes "a strategy of harassment and coercion."
The tariff escalation between the two countries has reached unprecedented levels: according to documents leaked from the White House and reported by U.S. media, Chinese imports are already facing accumulated tariffs of 145%.
The latest U.S. increase excluded China from a 90-day tariff truce granted to other trading partners, prompting an immediate response from Beijing.
In a direct message to the Trump administration, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian stated that if the United States wants to resolve issues through dialogue, it must abandon its maximum pressure tactics.
“China has never accepted coercion. We do not seek a trade war, but we do not fear it either,” Lin warned.
The spokesperson also pointed out that the Asian country's countermeasures "not only aim to protect China's legitimate interests, but also to defend global order, fairness, and the rights of all countries against U.S. unilateralism."
Trump's decision to exclude China from the trade truce was met with strong criticism from Beijing, which accuses Washington of undermining any efforts for balanced negotiations.
"The dialogue should be based on equality and mutual respect, not on imposition," Lin emphasized.
This new round of tariffs comes at a time of increasing geopolitical and economic tension between both countries and threatens to further destabilize global trade, amid warnings from international organizations about the effects of a prolonged trade war.
China has made it clear that it will not take a step back and is “ready to go all the way” if the United States maintains its current stance.
Frequently Asked Questions about the New Tariff Escalation Between China and the United States
Why did China decide to raise tariffs on products from the United States?
China increased tariffs up to 125% in response to the trade measures of Donald Trump's administration, which raised tariffs on Chinese products to 145%. This decision is part of the trade war between the two powers and aims to pressure the United States to abandon its maximum pressure tactics.
What are the reasons for the United States to increase tariffs on China?
Donald Trump justified the increase in tariffs on China due to what he considers unfair trade practices, such as illegal subsidies and currency manipulation. He also aims to curb the flow of problematic products like fentanyl. The Trump administration views these measures as a way to correct what they perceive as imbalances in international trade.
How does the trade war affect global markets?
The tariff escalation between China and the United States has generated uncertainty in global financial markets. Stock markets have experienced declines, and there are concerns about the stability of international trade. High tariffs may disrupt global supply chains and raise prices for consumers.
What position has China taken in response to the tariff pressures from the United States?
China has declared that it will not accept coercion and is willing to see it through to the end in the trade war with the United States. The Chinese government aims to protect its legitimate interests and has implemented measures such as raising tariffs and controlling strategic exports in response to Washington's actions.
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