BEIJING — China issued a warning Monday to countries negotiating trade agreements with the United States, cautioning against deals that could harm Chinese interests.
The statement follows President Donald Trump’s April 2 announcement of sweeping tariffs on imports from nearly all U.S. trading partners. While most tariffs were paused after market volatility, duties on Chinese goods were raised to 145%. Beijing responded with tariffs of 125% on U.S. imports.
China’s Commerce Ministry said it would “resolutely take countermeasures” if any country strikes a deal with Washington at China’s expense. The ministry accused the U.S. of “economic bullying” and warned that countries seeking exemptions by compromising Chinese interests would ultimately “harm others without benefiting themselves.”
Talks between China and the U.S. have not been scheduled. Meanwhile, countries including Taiwan, Japan, and South Korea are pursuing separate trade discussions with Washington.
