Trade Tensions Flare: Trump Threatens Further Tariffs, China Vows Retaliation

US-China Trade War Escalates as Both Sides Dig in Their Heels

The ongoing trade dispute between the United States and China continues to escalate. Following the imposition of tariffs by both nations, US President Donald Trump issued a warning to China. He stated that if China does not roll back its 34% tariffs, which are based on what the US perceives as long-standing trade abuses, the US will impose an additional 50% "extra" tariff on Chinese goods, effective April 9th.

In response, the Chinese Ministry of Commerce swiftly reacted on April 8th, asserting that if the US escalates its tariff measures, China will "resolutely take countermeasures to defend its own rights and interests." The ministry spokesperson indicated that if the US persists with this action, China would "accompany it to the end" (奉陪到底).

According to a statement released on the website of the Chinese Ministry of Commerce, the spokesperson addressed the threat of increased tariffs from the US. The spokesperson stated that China strongly opposes the US's threat to increase tariffs on China by 50% on April 7th, US Eastern Time. They emphasized that if the US moves forward with escalated tariffs, China would take firm retaliatory measures to protect its interests.