China16 March, 20263 min read
China Warns Trump's Tariffs Could Damage Trade Ties
China warned Trump's tariff moves could damage U.S.-China trade ties. Li Chenggang, China's international trade representative, delivered the warning in Paris.
China's Tariff Warning
China has issued a stern warning that President Trump's latest tariff moves could severely damage trade relations between the two economic superpowers.
“China warned Monday that U.S. President Donald Trump's latest tariff moves could harm the countries' trade relationship, at the end of high-level talks in Paris. Li Chenggang, China's international trade representative, said the Chinese side had expressed serious concern about trade investigations into manufacturing in foreign countries that the Trump administration launched after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down its earlier tariffs.”
This warning came following high-level talks in Paris between Chinese and U.S. officials.
Li Chenggang, China's international trade representative, expressed serious concern about ongoing trade investigations into manufacturing in foreign countries.
These investigations were launched by the Trump administration after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down earlier tariffs.
Li stated: 'We are concerned that the possible results of such investigations may interfere with or damage the hard-won and stable China-U.S. economic and trade relations.'
The Chinese delegation specifically raised issues about the possible extension of tariffs and non-tariff measures on both sides.
China highlighted concerns over the uncertainty as the U.S. adjusts its trade policies.
Paris Talks Outcome
The Paris talks aimed at preparing for Trump's planned visit to China in about two weeks.
Both sides concluded the discussions by agreeing to make efforts to keep tariffs stable despite ongoing tensions.
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who led the American delegation, characterized the discussions as 'constructive and they show the stability in the relationship.'
Bessent emphasized that the purpose of these meetings was 'to prevent any retaliation.'
Bessent announced that a statement 'reaffirming the stability' between the two countries would be issued 'in the next few days.'
While Li did not address questions about Trump's visit potential delay, Beijing's Foreign Ministry maintained communication channels open regarding the upcoming summit.
Visit Delay Risk
Trump's planned visit to China faces potential postponement due to the ongoing Iran war. U.S. officials suggest the president may delay his trip to coordinate military operations. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told CNBC that 'If the meeting for some reason was rescheduled, it would be rescheduled because of logistics.'
“Meanwhile, officials in the Trump administration said the president may delay his trip to China because of the ongoing Iran war. 'If the meeting for some reason was rescheduled, it would be rescheduled because of logistics,' U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told CNBC.”
Bessent explained that 'the president wants to remain in D.C. to coordinate the war, and traveling abroad at a time like this may not be optimal.' This uncertainty surrounding the summit comes amid heightened tensions in U.S.-China relations.
Relations have been fraught over the past year, with both sides having previously threatened steep tariffs. Such tariff escalations could have major economic consequences if not properly managed through diplomatic channels.
Global Response
China's tariff warning comes amid broader international unease over Trump's foreign policy decisions. Particularly concerning is Trump's decision to strike Iran alongside Israel and his ongoing tariff policies. These policies have put pressure on global trade partnerships beyond just the U.S.-China relationship.
Multiple countries have shown reluctance to support Trump's initiative for reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Germany, Australia, Luxembourg and Japan have stated they have no plans to send vessels to help reopen this critical oil route. German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius explicitly declared that 'this is not our war, we have not started it.'
China has not directly accepted Trump's proposal for NATO members to assist, calling on all parties 'to immediately cease military operations.' Trump has responded by demanding 'whatever it takes' from allies, including minesweepers, to reopen the vital shipping lane. Oil prices continue to spike amid the ongoing disruptions.