Days following Donald Trump’s declaration of an additional 100 per cent tariffs on Chinese imports and strict export controls on critical US-made software, a Chinese diplomat in India issued a firm warning to Washington. The Chinese official stated that if the US did not ease its stance, China would retaliate accordingly. The diplomat emphasized that the US should rectify its errors to avoid China taking necessary actions to safeguard its interests.
Last week, Trump announced that if China does not take action, the US will impose 100 per cent tariffs on Chinese imports in addition to existing tariffs, effective from November 1. This move is part of Trump’s strategy targeting countries indirectly supporting Russia’s economy through energy trade.
During an event in Kolkata, Chinese Consul General Xu Wei expressed China’s clear stance on the US-China tariff conflict, highlighting China’s preference for cooperation but readiness to respond if provoked. Wei stressed the importance of cooperation between China and India amid the current global trade challenges.
India, engaged in a trade dispute with the US over Russian oil purchases, was mentioned by Wei as a significant Asian economy. He underscored the need for cooperation among China, the US, and India, stating that collaboration benefits all parties involved.
Wei pointed out the robust economic ties between India and China, with bilateral trade surpassing USD 100 billion annually in recent years. He also announced the resumption of direct flights between the two countries and the issuance of visas to Indian citizens by Chinese diplomatic offices.
The event hosted by the Chinese Consulate highlighted China’s commitment to enhancing economic cooperation and trade relations with India. In response to the US tariffs, China halted soybean imports from America in September, opting for increased imports from South America instead.
Experts warn of potential losses for US farmers due to the soybean trade disruption with China. Trump’s upcoming meeting with Xi Jinping in South Korea was mentioned in relation to the ongoing trade tensions and China’s rare earth element export controls, which Trump criticized on social media.
Trump expressed doubt about the scheduled meeting with Xi, citing concerns about China’s economic practices. Beijing had not confirmed the meeting between the two leaders.