Beijing: China on Wednesday announced it would increase tariffs on US goods by up to 84 percent, describing the move as "retaliatory" following US President Donald Trump's decision to raise tariffs on imports from China to 104 percent.
According to Kuwait News Agency, the Chinese commerce ministry stated that if the US continues to escalate its economic and trade restrictions, China is prepared to take necessary countermeasures and persist in its efforts. The new tariffs will take effect on Thursday, complementing China's decision to label 11 US-based companies as "unreliable entities." Foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian urged Washington to approach the situation with "equality and respect" to facilitate dialogue and resolution.
The ministry's statement emphasized "history and facts," warning that the US tariff increase could exacerbate its own economic issues and risk triggering a comprehensive trade war. It accused the US of "economic bullying, protectionism and unilateralism." On April 2, President Trump had announced extensive tariffs on all imported goods entering the US, significantly impacting China with levies on Chinese goods rising by up to 50 percent, resulting in a total of 104 percent.