Chinese Foreign Minister Criticizes U.S. Over Escalating Tariffs
On Friday, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi strongly criticized the United States for its escalating tariff policies, warning that Washington “cannot act recklessly” as the ongoing trade conflict continues to disrupt global markets.
Wang stated that the U.S., by increasing tariffs, is prioritizing its own interests at the expense of the collective interests of other nations and is disregarding the multilateral trading system and established global rules. This statement was made during a meeting with Rafael Mariano Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), as reported by Chinaโs Foreign Ministry.
Wang called for the international community, particularly the United Nations, to take a unified stand in defense of sovereign equality, to prevent the world from descending into a “jungle” where the powerful dominate the weak.
He reiterated Chinaโs commitment to protecting its “legitimate rights and interests” and stressed that China also aims to safeguard the broader interests of the global community.
In the context of this escalating trade war, China had previously raised tariffs on all U.S. imports to 125% and announced that it would no longer “pay attention” to the trade moves of the Trump administration. In response, U.S. President Donald Trump imposed tariffs on Chinese goods, raising them to 145%, accusing Beijing of “abusing” trade practices with the U.S.
