China has warned that it will respond firmly to any trade arrangements that undermine its national interests as several countries pursue tariff relief negotiations with the United States.
The warning comes amid increasing diplomatic activity following former President Donald Trump’s announcement of a broad tariff policy aimed at reshaping the global trade order.
Trump declared April 2 as “Liberation Day” and proposed new levies on a wide range of imported goods, including electronics, semiconductors and machinery.
The tariffs are expected to impact major exporters across Asia and Europe.
In a statement released by the Chinese Ministry of Commerce, officials stated that Beijing will not tolerate trade alliances or deals that isolate China or target its industries.
The ministry said that China reserves the right to respond with countermeasures if any trade partnership creates an uneven playing field or threatens its economic stability.
The United States has opened talks with countries including Japan, South Korea, Germany and India, offering selective tariff exemptions in exchange for new trade concessions and tighter restrictions on Chinese goods.
The negotiations have raised concerns in Beijing that the US is attempting to build a coalition to restrict China’s access to key markets and technologies.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said on Thursday that China will oppose any unilateral trade pressure and will not accept being treated unfairly.
He warned that China will take all necessary steps to safeguard its economic sovereignty and global supply chain influence.
The escalating trade rhetoric follows a market volatility triggered by Trump’s proposed tariffs.
Several multinational corporations have already flagged potential disruptions to their production and supply operations due to higher import costs and strained diplomatic ties between Washington and Beijing.
Industry analysts said China’s latest remarks reflect a broader strategy to deter neighboring countries from aligning too closely with US trade objectives.
Beijing is also reportedly stepping up its regional engagements with ASEAN members and the European Union to solidify economic ties and block attempts at trade decoupling.
While the US has not publicly confirmed the terms of the ongoing tariff relief talks, some officials have indicated that any exemptions will be conditional on reducing trade dependencies on China, particularly in advanced manufacturing and technology sectors.
China has already begun reviewing its own tariff framework and may consider imposing retaliatory duties on US imports if diplomatic tensions escalate.
Trade authorities are also monitoring foreign companies that shift supply chains away from China as part of the broader geopolitical realignment.
The global trade landscape remains highly uncertain as governments navigate between securing domestic economic interests and managing diplomatic relations with both Washington and Beijing.
Analysts expect further developments in the coming weeks as more countries weigh their positions ahead of potential tariff implementations in the second half of the year.
