China has announced that it can ensure its food and energy security even if it stops importing commodities from the United States. Zhao Chenxin, deputy head of the National Development and Reform Commission, stated on Monday that the country’s domestic grain reserves are abundant, and imports from the U.S. accounted for only a small portion of China’s grain consumption last year.
“Even if we stop buying feed grains and oilseeds from the United States, there would be minimal impact on China’s grain supply,” Zhao said. He emphasized that grain imports from the U.S. are primarily feed grains, and there are numerous alternatives available in the international market.
Regarding energy, Zhao noted that imports of crude oil, natural gas, and coal from the U.S. represent a very small share of China’s energy consumption. “China’s domestic energy supply remains ample, and we can import from diverse sources in the international market,” he added. “Even if Chinese companies reduce or completely halt energy imports from the United States, it will have no impact on China’s domestic energy supply.”
The commission plans to work with relevant departments to further safeguard food and energy security, engage in international cooperation, and ensure stable domestic supply and smooth market operations in both sectors.
Zhao criticized the “reciprocal tariffs” imposed by the United States, describing them as “a typical act of unilateral bullying” that defies historical trends and economic laws. “These actions are doomed to fail,” he asserted.
“In the face of these unreasonable tariffs, China has resolutely stood up against such practices and responded with justified and restrained countermeasures,” Zhao said. “Our move aims not only to protect our legitimate rights and interests but also to uphold international fairness and justice, maintain the global free trade system, and preserve a normal international economic order.”
He concluded by emphasizing China’s commitment to global cooperation: “China will stand together with the vast majority of countries in the world—on the right side of history and on the side of human progress.”
