China has fired back at the U.S. over new tariffs linked to the fentanyl crisis, calling the move 'harmful' and unjustified. The heated exchange highlights escalating trade tensions between the two superpowers, with Beijing announcing retaliatory measures targeting American agricultural goods. 🌾🚨
'Trade Wars Have No Winners'
Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao didn’t hold back during a press conference at the National People’s Congress, criticizing the U.S. for using the opioid crisis as a 'pretext' to impose tariffs. He emphasized China’s strict controls on fentanyl-related chemicals and its global anti-drug efforts, releasing a white paper to back its claims. 📄💊
Retaliation Hits U.S. Farmers
China’s countermeasures include 15% tariffs on American chicken, wheat, and cotton, plus 10% on pork, soybeans, and dairy. Wang called the U.S. actions 'unilateral bullying' and noted a drop in U.S. stock indices post-announcement. 📉 'Protectionism isn’t the answer,' he said, urging cooperation over confrontation.
Global Implications
The clash raises concerns about its ripple effect on global markets and food prices. While Wang stressed that U.S.-China collaboration benefits both nations, the tariff war leaves businesses and consumers on edge. Will this escalate further? The world is watching. 👀💼
