China Raises Concerns over US Tariffs in Call with Treasury Secretary
Washington, DC. – Chinese Commerce Minister He Lifeng expressed "grave concerns" on Friday regarding President Donald Trump’s decision to impose additional tariffs on Chinese imports during a phone call with US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin.
Concerns over US Tariffs
According to China’s state-run broadcaster CCTV, Minister He conveyed China’s "serious concerns over recent restrictive measures, including tariff increases, imposed on China by the United States."
President Trump has escalated his use of tariffs since the start of his second term in January, aiming to reduce the substantial US trade deficit. He imposed a 10% tariff on all imported Chinese goods in early February, targeting the country with the largest trade surplus with the US in terms of goods ($295.4 billion in 2024, according to the US Bureau of Economic Analysis).
Possible Trade Deal
Despite the tariffs, President Trump expressed optimism about a potential trade agreement with China on Wednesday. CCTV reported that during their phone call, "both sides exchanged views on important economic issues between China and the US regarding the implementation of a consensus" that could be reached between the two nations.
Minister He and Secretary Mnuchin "recognized the importance of China-US economic and trade relations and agreed to continue maintaining communication on issues of mutual concern," according to CCTV. The call was reportedly initiated by Secretary Mnuchin.
China’s Response
Responding to President Trump’s comments, a spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, Guo Jiakun, called for a de-escalation of tensions. "Trade and tariff wars produce no winners, only harming the interests of people around the world," Guo stated at a press briefing. "Both sides should resolve respective concerns through dialogue and consultation based on equality and mutual respect."
In retaliation to the US measures, Beijing has imposed tariffs of 15% on coal and liquefied natural gas (LNG) and 10% on crude oil and other US goods (agricultural machinery, vehicles, etc.), though to a significantly lesser extent proportionately.
Ongoing Negotiations
Despite the concerns raised by China, negotiations between the two countries continue. The phone call between Minister He and Secretary Mnuchin is a sign that both sides are still engaged in dialogue and seeking to resolve their differences.
The outcome of these negotiations will have a significant impact on global trade and the economies of both China and the US.
