China raises tariffs on U.S. products to 125% in response to Washington’s measures

On Friday, China announced a significant increase in tariffs on imports from the United States, raising them from 84% to 125%. The decision comes as a direct retaliation to recent trade policies approved by the U.S. government, which have heightened economic tensions between the two global powers.

In an official statement, the Chinese government expressed its rejection of Washington’s actions, accusing it of undermining the principles of international trade that, according to Beijing, the United States helped establish after World War II.

“We condemn these measures that disrupt global economic stability and declare that our tolerance is not limitless,” the statement read, warning that China is prepared to respond decisively if U.S. policies continue to harm its interests.

Despite the firm tone, Chinese authorities emphasized that the impact of U.S. tariffs has already significantly reduced the presence of American products in the Chinese market. In this regard, the statement described any further escalation as “economically unsustainable” and destined to become a “minor episode” in the history of global trade.

The announcement follows a series of reciprocal moves between the two countries. Just two days ago, China had adjusted its tariffs on U.S. goods from 34% to 84% in response to a 50% levy imposed by the Trump administration on Chinese products. The United States, in turn, retaliated by raising its tariffs to 125%, resulting in a cumulative total of 145% in taxes on imports from China.

During a press conference, the spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Lin Jian, stressed that China does not seek a trade confrontation but is ready to face one if necessary. “We urge Washington to abandon pressure tactics and choose dialogue, provided it is based on mutual respect,” he stated.

Lin also highlighted that China’s measures not only defend its national interests but also aim to protect the global trading system and the rights of other nations affected by the United States’ unilateral policies.

In parallel, China has brought the case before the World Trade Organization (WTO), denouncing U.S. tariffs as a violation of international trade rules, according to Chinese state media. Beijing insisted that any future negotiations must be based on equitable conditions, rejecting agreements that would disadvantage its economy.

The escalation of this trade dispute continues to generate uncertainty in global markets, as both nations maintain firm stances in defense of their economic interests.