China Commerce Ministry: China urges US to show sincerity if it wants to talk

China Commerce Ministry: China urges US to show sincerity if it wants to talk

BEIJING — The Chinese Ministry of Commerce has reiterated its stance on trade negotiations with the United States, urging the US to demonstrate sincerity if it wishes to engage in meaningful discussions. In a press conference held on Thursday, the Ministry's spokesperson, He Yongqian, emphasized that China has maintained a clear and consistent position, open to consultations on economic and trade issues with the US [1].

He Yongqian highlighted that the unilateral tariff hikes were initiated entirely by the US side and that it is up to the US to untie the "bell" they have tied. China has urged the US to immediately stop exerting maximum pressure, cease acts of coercion and blackmail, and resolve differences through equal dialogue based on mutual respect [1].

The Chinese Commerce Ministry has also accused the US of weaponizing tariffs to pressure other countries into cutting trade with Beijing. China has vowed to take countermeasures in a resolute and reciprocal manner against countries that make deals against Beijing's interests [2].

In the meantime, the US has continued to express irritation with the Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell and has hinted at easing tariffs to protect US consumers. The US Treasury Secretary, Scott Bessent, has expressed optimism about clarity on tariffs and progress on key trade deals [2].

The tit-for-tat between the world's two largest economies has intensified, with China raising its duties on imports of US goods to 125% from 84%, and US tariffs on Chinese imports ballooning to a 125% reciprocal tariff, a 20% tariff to address the fentanyl crisis, and Section 301 tariffs on specific goods, between 7.5% and 100% [2].

Investors and financial professionals are closely monitoring the situation, focusing on possible delays and exemptions in the tariff policy. The baseline 10% tariff that went into effect on April 5 remains in place for all affected imports into the US [2].

As the policy reverberates around the world, China's stance remains firm, emphasizing the need for mutual respect and sincere dialogue to resolve trade issues. The Chinese Commerce Ministry's message is clear: if the US wishes to engage in productive trade talks, it must show genuine sincerity and commitment.

References:
[1] https://www.chinadaily.com.cn/a/202504/17/WS6800d9bba3104d9fd38200bb.html
[2] https://ca.finance.yahoo.com/news/trump-tariffs-live-updates-china-warns-other-countries-us-companies-seek-clarity-191201538.html