China has issued a stern warning to countries negotiating trade deals with the United States at Beijing’s expense, vowing firm opposition and countermeasures. The statement follows reports that the Trump administration is pressuring other nations to restrict trade with China in exchange for US tariff exemptions.
“China firmly opposes any party reaching a deal at the expense of China’s interests,” a spokesperson from Beijing’s commerce ministry stated, adding that compromise and appeasement “will not bring peace” or respect. The ministry cautioned that countries prioritizing short-term gains risk severe consequences, likening the act to “seeking the skin of a tiger.”
Amid escalating trade tensions, Washington has imposed sweeping tariffs, with China facing levies as high as 145% on several goods, compared to a general 10% rate applied to others. Beijing has retaliated with tariffs of up to 125% on US products.
As some nations begin negotiating with the US to reduce tariffs, Beijing warned such strategies would ultimately fail and disrupt the global trading system. The Chinese government reiterated its stance that unilateral American tariffs “go against the whole world” and undermine the rules-based multilateral trade framework.
US President Donald Trump, meanwhile, has claimed that China is actively seeking a resolution, although he has expressed hesitation in escalating tariffs further due to concerns over their broader economic impact.
Beijing remains resolute, warning that any deal undermining its trade interests will be met with firm and reciprocal action.