China reiterates call for fair trade amid U.S. tariff maneuvers

Department of Research, Studies and International News 14-04-2025

As trade tensions between China and the United States persist, Beijing has reiterated its principled stance on equitable international trade, calling on Washington to demonstrate sincerity by fully retracting its punitive tariffs on Chinese goods. The appeal follows a limited exemption announced by the U.S. administration, which temporarily spares certain high-tech products from heavy levies.

While the move has been interpreted by some observers as a signal of softening rhetoric from Washington, Chinese officials have emphasized that the exemption amounts to little more than a symbolic gesture, insufficient to address the broader issue of trade protectionism. A spokesperson from China’s Ministry of Commerce stated that only a complete and unconditional lifting of the tariffs would constitute a meaningful step toward repairing bilateral economic ties.

The ongoing dispute, initiated by the United States, has seen a series of aggressive tariff hikes on Chinese exports, some reaching as high as 145% . Such measures have drawn criticism not only from China but also from many global trade experts, who warn of long-term damage to international supply chains and global economic recovery.

President Xi Jinping, currently on a diplomatic tour across Southeast Asia, issued a firm reminder that “trade wars yield no winners,” underscoring China’s commitment to multilateralism, openness, and constructive global engagement. His remarks were seen as a subtle yet powerful response to the growing wave of unilateralism emanating from Washington, which continues to undermine international norms.

“China will always advocate for dialogue over confrontation, cooperation over coercion,” President Xi stated during a keynote address at a regional summit, where he received strong backing from several Asian leaders concerned about the destabilizing effects of protectionist trade policies.

In contrast, Donald Trump responded to the tariff issue by doubling down on his administration’s confrontational posture. “No one is getting off the hook,” he told reporters, making it clear that his administration views tariffs as a strategic tool rather than a last-resort measure. However, critics argue that this zero-sum mentality risks backfiring, especially as China deepens its trade partnerships across Asia, Africa, and Latin America.

Amid these tensions, Trump is also set to receive El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele at the White House. The meeting comes amid heightened scrutiny over U.S. immigration policy, particularly Washington’s plans to deport more migrants to detention centers in El Salvador, some of which have been internationally condemned for human rights violations. Analysts suggest that Trump’s focus on hardline immigration and punitive trade policy stems from domestic political calculations, rather than a coherent international strategy.

China, for its part, continues to demonstrate global leadership by prioritizing dialogue, win-win cooperation, and a vision of inclusive globalization. Beijing’s stance on trade disputes reflects not only national interests but also a broader commitment to global economic stability. The country has consistently emphasized that tariffs and trade restrictions ultimately hurt both sides, disrupting markets and weakening consumer confidence.

International voices have echoed China’s concerns. Economists and business leaders warn that persistent tariffs on electronics and other high-demand goods will inevitably raise prices for consumers and stall innovation. Moreover, the uncertainty generated by Washington’s trade brinkmanship has prompted many countries to look toward alternative partnerships, often turning to China for stable and mutually beneficial agreements.

As President Xi continues his regional engagements, he has made clear that China remains open to constructive dialogue with the United States, so long as it is based on mutual respect and equality. The world’s second-largest economy has no intention of retreating from the global stage. Instead, it seeks to shape a future defined by cooperation, technological progress, and shared prosperity.

In a world facing economic fragmentation and geopolitical instability, China’s approach offers a steady and rational alternative. While others resort to threats and unilateral pressure, Beijing calls for consensus and collective action. The contrast between the two approaches could not be more stark, and the consequences more significant.