China has vowed to take “resolute and effective measures” to protect its rights and interests following the implementation of a 104% tariff on Chinese imports by US President Donald Trump on Wednesday.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian condemned the move during a press briefing, stating, “The United States continues to impose arbitrary tariffs on China and apply relentless pressure. China firmly opposes and will never accept such domineering and bullying behavior.”
Lin further warned that if the US persists in pursuing a tariff and trade war, disregarding the interests of both nations and the global community, China would “fight to the end.”
Initially, US tariffs on Chinese imports were set to rise by 34% on Wednesday as part of Trump’s “reciprocal” tariff strategy. However, the president escalated the measures by adding an additional 50% after Beijing upheld its commitment to impose 34% retaliatory tariffs on US goods by Tuesday noon. Prior to this latest escalation, Trump had already introduced 20% tariffs on China since resuming office.
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Lin emphasized that “the legitimate right to development of the Chinese people cannot be deprived, and China’s sovereignty, security, and development interests cannot be infringed upon.”
While Beijing has yet to announce immediate countermeasures to the latest US tariffs, the tone from the Chinese government, state media, and opinion leaders remains defiant, signaling a strong resolve to retaliate.
