Beijing: China has hit back at the United States over its escalating tariff threats, declaring it will not be swayed by Washington’s “numbers game.” The response comes after the White House outlined a complex web of duties that could push tariffs on Chinese goods as high as 245%, including levies targeting unfair trade practices and the fentanyl crisis.
On Tuesday, the White House released a fact sheet detailing the breakdown: a 125% retaliatory tariff, a 20% fentanyl-related duty, and additional tariffs ranging from 7.5% to 100% on specific Chinese imports.
Earlier, President Donald Trump had imposed sweeping tariffs on various countries, but later eased them for most—except China. Beijing responded by raising its own tariffs on American goods and has refused talks unless they are based on “mutual respect and equality.”
China also filed a fresh complaint with the World Trade Organization, accusing the U.S. of violating global trade rules and expressing “grave concern” over Washington’s actions.
Amid rising tensions, China appointed Li Chenggang—its WTO envoy—as the new lead trade negotiator, replacing long-time official Wang Shouwen. The move signals a potential shift in Beijing’s approach, though no formal negotiations are underway.
While the White House said Trump remains open to a trade deal, it insists Beijing must take the first step and implied China needs the U.S. more than vice versa.