China has retaliated against recent trade tariffs imposed by the United States, escalating tensions in a protracted trade dispute. Just hours after President Xi Jinping publicly addressed the situation, China announced a significant increase in duties on American imports, raising them from 84% to an impressive 125%.
Xi Jinping asserted that his country is prepared for the ongoing conflict, stating that China isn’t intimidated by Washington’s increased tariffs despite concerns about potential global economic instability. International markets have already reacted negatively, prompting anxieties of a looming recession.
Speaking alongside Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez in Beijing on Friday, Xi emphasized the futility of trade wars and warned against isolationist policies.
“There are no winners in a trade war, and going against the world will only lead to self-isolation,” he stated.
He further underscored China’s long history of independent development:
- China’s progress has been built on its own efforts and resilience.
- The nation isn’t reliant on external assistance.
- It won’t be deterred by unfair pressure.
“Regardless of how the external environment changes, China will remain confident, stay focused, and concentrate on managing its own affairs well,” Xi affirmed.
Earlier in the day, President Trump clarified that his tariffs on Chinese goods were actually set at 145%, a revision from his previously stated figure of 125%. The situation remains fluid.