Beijing Responds to Washington’s Trade War Tactics
China has made it clear that the United States must cancel its extensive tariffs on Chinese imports if President Donald Trump is serious about resuming trade negotiations. The demand, issued by China’s Commerce Ministry, comes as the economic standoff between the two global powers continues to deepen.
A Chinese official stated that no current trade discussions are underway, despite conflicting remarks from Trump and members of his administration suggesting otherwise. The U.S. had imposed tariffs of up to 145% on Chinese goods, while China responded with retaliatory measures including a 125% tax on American products.
China Returns Boeing Planes in Retaliation
As a visible sign of its displeasure, China has returned Boeing aircraft previously ordered from the U.S. The manufacturer’s executive, Kelly Ortberg, confirmed that two planes have already been sent back, with another expected to follow. This symbolic retaliation highlights the growing impact of the trade war on major multinational corporations.
Sharp Words from Chinese Officials
He Yadong, spokesperson for China’s Commerce Ministry, emphasized that the U.S. must remove all “unilateral tariff measures” if it “truly wanted” to resolve the ongoing conflict. Using a Chinese proverb, he added, “The person who tied the bell must untie it,” implying that the U.S. started the conflict and must also be the one to resolve it.
In parallel, Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun dismissed claims that negotiations were active, stating that “no consultations or negotiations on tariffs” have occurred, and reports suggesting otherwise are “false.”
Conflicting Messages from Washington
While President Trump has insisted trade talks are progressing, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent contradicted that stance, stating no such negotiations have started. However, he noted there is potential for a “big deal,” expressing optimism about a future resolution and emphasizing the trade war’s unsustainable trajectory.
Trump’s Mixed Messages and Boeing Frustration
On his Truth Social account, Trump reacted angrily to China’s return of Boeing planes, saying, “Boeing should default China for not taking the beautifully finished planes that China committed to purchase.” He further accused China of enabling the flow of fentanyl into the U.S. via Mexico and Canada, reiterating long-standing concerns over synthetic opioids.
China Courts Foreign Companies Amid Crisis
In a bid to stabilize its economic environment, China held a roundtable with over 80 foreign firms on Wednesday to address concerns over U.S. tariffs. Vice Commerce Minister Ling Ji encouraged these firms to “turn crises into opportunities,” signaling efforts to maintain investor confidence despite the ongoing trade turmoil.
The standoff between the world’s two largest economies shows no signs of abating, with political rhetoric intensifying and economic repercussions becoming more evident by the day.
Category: International Trade, US Politics, China News
Tags: China trade war, Trump tariffs, Boeing China retaliation, He Yadong, Guo Jiakun, US China negotiations, trade tensions 2025, synthetic opioids, fentanyl China Mexico, Truth Social Trump
