China Warns Against Appeasing U.S. Amid Escalating Global Trade Tensions

As the U.S.-China trade war intensifies, China has issued a stern warning to countries considering trade deals with Washington that undermine Beijing’s interests, vowing swift retaliation against any such actions

China’s Commerce Ministry has cautioned that any nation aligning with the U.S. in trade negotiations at Beijing’s expense will face countermeasures, as tensions between the world’s two largest economies continue to ripple across global markets.

The warning follows reports that the U.S. plans to pressure its trading partners into restricting commerce with China in exchange for tariff exemptions. “Appeasement cannot bring peace, and compromise cannot earn one respect,” a ministry spokesperson declared, making clear that China will not tolerate being sidelined in international trade arrangements.

Recent developments include the Trump administration initiating talks with countries such as Japan and South Korea. Japan has already begun negotiations, with senior trade officials meeting President Trump in Washington last week, while South Korea is expected to begin discussions soon.

Since his return to office, President Trump has imposed heavy tariffs on Chinese imports, with some levies reaching up to 145%. Additionally, a blanket 10% tariff has been placed on goods from other countries until at least July. Meanwhile, China has responded with a retaliatory 125% tax on U.S. products, pledging to “fight to the end.”

The U.S. has claimed these tariffs will protect American industries, boost domestic consumption, and increase tax revenue. However, critics argue that restoring manufacturing to U.S. soil is a complex and long-term challenge, warning of potential economic strain during the transition.

The Trump administration has also shown signs of strategic flexibility, pausing tariffs for 90 days on all countries except China following backlash from lawmakers and market instability.

Meanwhile, U.S. Vice President JD Vance is set to meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi this week. Without a trade deal, India could face a steep 26% tariff. Vance also expressed optimism about reaching an agreement with the UK, stating, “We’re working very hard with Keir Starmer’s government.”

Economic analysts have pointed out the geopolitical tightrope nations must walk. “Certainly, Japan doesn’t want to choose between America and the People’s Republic of China,” said Jesper Koll of Monex Group, highlighting the stakes for countries with economic ties to both powers.

An editorial in China’s state-run China Daily echoed these concerns, urging the European Union not to appease the United States at China’s expense.

With the trade war escalating and more countries being drawn into its orbit, the global economic landscape faces a period of deep uncertainty and strategic recalibration.

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