China Criticizes Trump’s Tariff Threat, Asserts It Won’t Solve America’s Problems

China has sharply criticized U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s pledge to impose additional tariffs on Chinese goods in response to the flow of fentanyl into the United States. Beijing accused the incoming administration of unfairly shifting the blame for America’s opioid crisis onto China, a move that could escalate trade tensions between the two nations.
Trump, set to take office on January 20, announced a proposed 10% tariff on Chinese goods to pressure Beijing to stop the trafficking of fentanyl-related chemicals. During his campaign, Trump had warned of even higher tariffs, potentially as much as 60%, on Chinese imports. This latest move signals the beginning of what could be a prolonged and intensified trade dispute, following a four-year trade war during Trump’s first term, which already saw tariffs ranging from 7.5% to 25%.
Chinese officials, including Commerce Ministry spokesperson He Yadong, reiterated Beijing’s stance against unilateral tariff increases, stressing that such measures would not resolve the U.S.’s domestic issues. He called for adherence to World Trade Organization rules and a more cooperative approach to foster stable economic and trade relations. Chinese state media editorialized that new tariffs could lead to a destructive trade war, further straining the global economy and supply chains.
The exchange marks the continuation of a contentious trade relationship, with some in Trump’s circle, like his pick for Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, calling for even harsher tariffs, such as 200% on Chinese goods, framing the fentanyl crisis as a direct attack by China on the U.S.