ISLAMABAD: China has issued a stern warning to countries participating in ongoing trade talks, urging them not to “appease” the United States in exchange for temporary tariff exemptions. The message comes amid escalating tensions over U.S. trade policy under the Trump administration.
Speaking on Monday, a spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Commerce responded to reports that the U.S. is leveraging trade negotiations to pressure countries into aligning with Washington’s strategy against Beijing. The tactic allegedly includes offering relief from U.S. import tariffs to nations that restrict trade with China.
“The pursuit of short-term interests at the expense of others is like seeking the skin of a tiger—it is bound to end in failure and mutual harm,” the spokesperson warned. “Appeasement cannot bring peace, and compromise cannot earn respect.”
China’s Retaliatory Stance
The statement reflects China’s growing frustration with what it views as unfair trade practices and underscores its intent to defend national economic sovereignty. The Ministry emphasized that all nations should uphold international trade norms and resist pressure that undermines multilateralism.
Beijing also reiterated that it would take “reciprocal countermeasures” against any country that signs trade deals with the U.S. that are deemed harmful to China’s interests.
The current standoff has seen both sides impose steep tariffs: the U.S. has levied duties of up to 145% on some Chinese goods, while China has responded with tariffs as high as 125% on American imports.
Global Ripple Effects
The U.S.-China trade war has placed several countries, particularly those economically tied to both giants, in a difficult position. Nations such as Japan and South Korea face mounting pressure as they attempt to maintain balanced relations.
Economist Jesper Koll of Monex Group noted that around 20% of Japan’s corporate profitability comes from the U.S., while 15% comes from China, illustrating the tightrope many economies are walking.
“The challenge is not being forced to choose between America and China,” Koll said, adding that the current climate could disrupt established trade relationships across the Asia-Pacific region.
Trump’s Tariff Strategy
Since taking office, President Donald Trump has aggressively pushed for tariffs aimed at reducing America’s reliance on Chinese imports and reviving domestic manufacturing. While the administration claims this strategy protects American jobs and consumers, critics argue the approach is disruptive, with potential long-term economic fallout.
In an apparent move to ease international concerns, Trump recently announced a 90-day suspension of tariffs for countries other than China. However, the inconsistent nature of these measures has left many trading partners uncertain about the future of global commerce.
Rising Tensions in Trade Talks
Negotiations continue between the U.S. and key trading partners such as Japan, South Korea, and India. According to reports, Washington is using these talks to extract concessions aimed at isolating China from global trade networks.
China has made it clear that it will not allow its interests to be sacrificed in what it sees as a geopolitical chess game. The latest warning signals Beijing’s readiness to escalate countermeasures if other countries move to restrict trade ties under U.S. pressure.
As trade tensions continue to shape the global economic landscape, the world watches closely. The stakes remain high for smaller nations caught between two economic superpowers and a growing uncertainty surrounding the future of international trade cooperation.
