China prepares countermeasures in response to US tariff threats

In a recent article, Global Times unveils that in response to a US threat to impose an additional 10 per cent tariff on Chinese goods under the pretext of combating fentanyl trafficking, China is currently assessing and formulating potential countermeasures.

The source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, indicated that China's counteractions are expected to include both tariff increases and a range of non-tariff measures, with US agricultural and food products likely to be included in the targeted goods.

"If the US insists on imposing unilateral tariffs and formally announces the relevant measures, China will certainly implement strong and decisive countermeasures," the source emphasised, signaling Beijing's readiness to retaliate.

The tension escalated following US President Donald Trump's announcement in a social media post that tariffs on both Canada and Mexico would take effect on March 4. 

He also stated that China would be subject to an additional 10 per cent tariff on the same date. This latest threat from the US government sparked immediate and firm opposition from multiple Chinese ministries, including the Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. A MOFCOM spokesperson responded to the threat, reaffirming China’s position as one of the most stringent countries in terms of both counternarcotics policies and enforcement.

The spokesperson further emphasised that China has actively engaged in international cooperation on counternarcotics with the US and other countries.

“Shifting the blame to other countries will not resolve the US' problem," the MOFCOM spokesperson stated. 

"Rather, it could increase the burden on US businesses and consumers and destabilise global supply chains."

The spokesperson continued, urging the US to return to the "correct approach" of resolving trade disputes through equitable dialogue. 

“If the US insists on its course, China will take all necessary countermeasures to protect its legitimate rights and interests,” the official added. In a similar vein, Lin Jian, a spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, condemned the US proposal for additional tariffs, calling the move counterproductive. 

"If the US continues to use the fentanyl issue to pressure, blackmail, coerce, and threaten China, it will only undermine the dialogue and cooperation between China and the US in drug control," Lin asserted during a regular press briefing. 

The US proposed tariffs are the latest in a series of trade and economic tensions between the two countries, which have sparked global concerns over the stability of international trade relations and supply chains. With both sides preparing for potential economic confrontation, the ongoing dispute remains unresolved as China pledges to defend its national interests and engage in diplomatic efforts to mitigate the impact of further escalation.

By Naila Huseynova