China has urged the United States to engage in dialogue to ease growing trade tensions, as both countries continue to impose tariffs on each other’s imports, according to AFP.
Speaking at a news conference on Thursday, China’s commerce ministry spokeswoman He Yongqian reiterated Beijing’s commitment to a cooperative resolution.
“China has always advocated that China and the United States should adopt a positive and cooperative attitude towards differences and controversies in economic and trade fields,” she said.
“But it must be stressed that any form of communication and consultation must be based on mutual respect, equality and mutual benefit,” she continued.
“Threats and intimidation can only be counterproductive. It is hoped that the United States and China will work together… to return to the correct track of resolving issues through dialogue and consultation.”
The trade dispute has intensified since US President Donald Trump returned to office in January. Citing concerns over China’s failure to curb the flow of fentanyl and related chemicals, Washington has imposed a series of tariffs on Chinese goods.
Earlier this month, Trump raised tariffs on Chinese imports from 10% to 20%. In response, Beijing introduced tariffs of up to 15% on US agricultural products, including soybeans, pork, and chicken.
On Wednesday, Trump escalated the dispute further by imposing a 25% duty on all steel and aluminum imports into the US. China, the world’s largest steel producer, vowed to take “all necessary measures” to protect its interests.
The trade conflict has also widened beyond China, with the European Union announcing retaliatory tariffs on $28 billion worth of American exports, including bourbon, motorcycles, and boats. EU President Ursula von der Leyen condemned the US tariffs as “unjustified” and warned of further actions if Washington does not reverse course.
Canada has also responded with tariffs on nearly C$30 billion worth of US imports, targeting products such as steel, computers, and sports equipment. The Canadian government said it is adopting a “dollar-by-dollar” approach to counter the US measures.