Beijing Warns Countries Against Undermining China in Trade Deals with the U.S.

Beijing has issued a firm warning to countries considering trade agreements with the United States that could harm China’s economic interests amid escalating tensions in the ongoing U.S.-China trade dispute. China’s Ministry of Commerce cautioned that any deals made at China’s expense would be met with strong opposition and possible retaliatory measures.

 

The warning comes as the Trump administration intensifies efforts to pressure its allies into restricting trade with China, including limiting Chinese goods and companies in their markets. Reports suggest the U.S. is pushing partners to impose secondary tariffs on imports from countries closely allied with China and to prevent Chinese products from transiting through their territories.

 

China’s spokesperson emphasized that “appeasement does not foster peace, and yielding does not garner respect,” urging countries not to pursue short-term gains that could damage long-term relations. Beijing has also ramped up its own retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods and has taken the dispute to the World Trade Organization.

 

President Xi Jinping has been actively engaging with Southeast Asian nations to strengthen regional cooperation and counterbalance U.S. trade pressures. China’s Commerce Ministry warned that if global trade devolves into coercion and unilateralism, all countries would suffer.

 

The escalating trade tensions highlight the difficult position many countries face as they navigate between economic ties with the world’s two largest economies. Beijing’s warning signals its resolve to protect its interests and resist any trade deals that undermine its position.