China warns of countermeasures against nations siding with US trade pressure

China blasted the US and amped up its rhetoric in a burgeoning trade war with President Trump. China accused the US of weaponising tariffs to pressure other countries into cutting trade with Beijing, calling it an act of “unilateral bullying” disguised as reciprocity.

China said it respects fair negotiations between nations but would not accept any deal made at its expense. It vowed to take firm countermeasures if others bowed to US pressure. China said a return to “jungle rules” in trade would harm, Trump signalled he was open to negotiations with trading partners last week, including China, even as the US took steps to escalate its fast-moving trade war with Beijing.

On Thursday, Trump hinted at easing tariffs to protect US consumers. He also cited progress in talks with Japan and a “very productive” call with Mexico’s president, while welcoming Italy’s Prime Minister to the White House. Meanwhile, China has shown openness to trade talks with the US, contingent on specific conditions, despite the White House clarifying that “China now faces tariffs of up to 245% on imports to the United States”.

While U.S. President Donald Trump has singled out China in his trade war by imposing 145% tariffs on Chinese goods, Beijing has retaliated with 125% levies on American products.