China’s Ministry of Commerce has called out the U.S. for its ‘excessive’ use of national security concerns to justify steep tariff hikes on steel, aluminum, and related products. The move comes after Washington raised duties from 25% to 50%, sparking fresh tensions in global trade. 🔥
Tariffs & Trade Tensions
Spokesperson He Yongqian slammed the U.S. decision at a Thursday press conference, warning it could ‘severely disrupt global supply chains’ and harm both nations. 💼⚖️ He emphasized that such policies reflect a ‘zero-sum mentality’ and urged the U.S. to engage in ‘equal dialogue’ instead of unilateral actions.
What’s Next for U.S.-China Relations?
Despite ‘earnest efforts’ by Beijing to uphold agreements from May’s Geneva trade talks, He accused the U.S. of undermining progress with new restrictions. 🛑 China has vowed to take ‘resolute measures’ if Washington continues, signaling a potential escalation in the years-long trade rivalry.
Analysts warn the tariffs—including controversial Section 301 levies—could backfire, with costs ‘falling on U.S. businesses and consumers’. 📉 Will this latest spat cool down, or is it a prelude to a new Cold War-style economic standoff? Stay tuned. 🔍
