China has strongly criticized the Trump administration’s decision to impose a 10% tariff on Chinese imports, labeling it a breach of international trade regulations. Despite this condemnation, Beijing has indicated a willingness to engage in negotiations to prevent further escalation of tensions.
On Sunday, China’s finance and commerce ministries announced plans to challenge the tariff at the World Trade Organization (WTO) and implement countermeasures once the new levy takes effect on Tuesday. However, in contrast to previous retaliatory actions, China’s response appeared restrained, reflecting its recent approach to easing tensions.
The Trump administration justified the tariffs—including a 25% duty on imports from Canada and Mexico—as part of efforts to curb the inflow of fentanyl, a powerful opioid, from China into the United States. In response, China’s foreign ministry dismissed this rationale, asserting that fentanyl abuse is an internal American issue and highlighting Beijing’s ongoing cooperation with Washington on anti-narcotics efforts.
Although China’s WTO challenge is largely symbolic—similar to its previous complaint against European Union tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles—it underscores Beijing’s opposition to trade restrictions. The commerce ministry called on the U.S. to pursue “honest dialogue and enhanced cooperation,” emphasizing that a trade war would be detrimental to both nations.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning reiterated China’s consistent stance that “there is no winner in a trade war,” reinforcing Beijing’s preference for negotiation over confrontation.
As the new tariffs take effect, the global community is watching closely to see how China will respond—whether through trade countermeasures, economic policies, or diplomatic channels.
