Bessent Labels China’s Tariff Response ‘Disproportionate’
WASHINGTON — U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent sharply criticized China’s recent tariff escalation, calling it a “losing move” during an interview on FOX Business Wednesday. His comments come as Beijing raised its tariffs on U.S. imports from 34% to 84%, following the Trump administration’s decision to increase tariffs on Chinese goods to 104%.
“They are the surplus country. Their exports to the U.S. are five times our exports to China,” Bessent said. “They can raise tariffs, but so what?”
China’s New Tariffs Set to Take Effect Thursday
According to a statement issued by Chinese officials, the new tariff rates will take effect Thursday. Chinese authorities reiterated their commitment to continuing the trade dispute if necessary, pledging to “fight to the end.”
Bessent Presses China on Fentanyl Trafficking
In addition to addressing trade issues, Bessent also urged China to crack down on fentanyl exports, which have become a major point of concern for the U.S. government.
“Distributing drugs in China is punishable by death,” Bessent noted. “Why don’t they apply the same standards to those exporting chemicals to the U.S.?”
President Donald Trump has frequently raised the issue of fentanyl trafficking as part of broader negotiations with China, emphasizing its impact on public health and national security.
