In a recent press statement, a spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry of the Chinese mainland challenged the United Statesā plan to slap up to 245% tariffs on certain imports. According to a White House Fact Sheet released on April 15, these hefty duties stem from a Section 232 investigation and are seen as tit-for-tat measures.
"The extortionate tariff hikes have become a numbers game," the spokesperson said, arguing that the added percentage points no longer shift the economic balance. Instead, they underscore how the United States "weaponizes tariffs to coerce and bully others."
Despite the sharp tone, the spokesperson stressed that "the Chinese mainland does not want to fight those wars, but neither are we afraid of them." Trade and tariff wars, they noted, "have no winners."
Looking ahead, the spokesperson warned that if the United States sticks to the numbers game alone, it will likely be ignored. But any actions that harm the rights and interests of the Chinese mainland will trigger "resolute countermeasures," with authorities prepared to stand their ground "to the end."
As global supply chains and businesses weigh the impact of higher tariffs, observers say these developments could accelerate diversification of trade partners and push for more stable, rules-based negotiations. For young investors and entrepreneurs navigating an interconnected economy, the key takeaway is clear: in a world where trade disputes can escalate quickly, strategic agility and open dialogue remain crucial.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com