The Chinese Ministry of Commerce has called on the United States to stop using tariffs as a coercive tool in international trade. Speaking on Thursday, ministry spokesperson He Yadong urged the U.S. to reconsider its recent announcement of imposing “reciprocal tariffs” on trading partners.
“China is deeply concerned about the move,” He stated, emphasizing that international trade should promote global economic growth and enhance the welfare of people worldwide. He noted that the U.S.-proposed tariffs violate World Trade Organization (WTO) rules and disregard the balance achieved through nearly 80 years of multilateral trade negotiations.
The spokesperson criticized the U.S. approach as exemplifying unilateralism and protectionism, warning that it could severely damage the multilateral trading system and disrupt global supply chains. “It introduces tremendous uncertainty to normal international economic and trade activities,” He added, highlighting that many countries have explicitly voiced opposition to the U.S. strategy.
“A trade war offers no way out and produces no winners,” he said. “The United States should correct its erroneous practices and work with all countries to find solutions through equal consultation.”
