China has declared its readiness to confront the US in the ongoing trade conflict, asserting that the US is misusing the fentanyl issue to justify new tariffs. Lin Jian, a spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, emphasized that China will fight back against these developments. In response to US tariff increases, China has imposed tariffs on US goods and placed American companies on an export control list.

China has responded strongly to the United States’ recent tariff increases, claiming that the US is using the fentanyl crisis as a pretext to impose stricter tariffs on Chinese goods. Lin Jian, a spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, asserted that should the US desire a confrontation, whether through tariffs or trade, China is prepared to “fight till the end.”

In a statement addressing the New York Times, Lin emphasized that the US’s approach towards Chinese imports, including the increase of tariffs to 10 percent, is unjust. He maintained that the fentanyl issue is merely a flimsy justification for the tariffs and underscored China’s commitment to defending its rights and interests, deeming countermeasures as legitimate and necessary.

Lin went on to state that it is the United States and not China that is responsible for the fentanyl crisis plaguing the country. He expressed disappointment that, despite China’s meaningful efforts to assist the US in addressing this issue, the US has chosen to smear China and escalate tariffs rather than collaborate.

Additionally, he remarked, “Intimidation does not scare us. Bullying does not work on us.” Lin urged the US to consider a more diplomatic approach in addressing the fentanyl problem, advocating for equal consultation between the two nations. He concluded by reiterating that if the US is looking for war, whether in trade or tariffs, China is ready to respond.

This statement from China follows the Trump administration’s decision to double tariffs on Chinese imports from 10 percent to 20 percent. In retaliation, China announced its own tariffs on various American products, including a 15 percent tariff on chicken and grains, as well as additional tariffs on a range of agricultural goods.

Furthermore, China’s Ministry of Commerce has taken the step of adding 15 American companies to an export control list, which prohibits Chinese enterprises from exporting dual-use equipment to these firms. Experts suggest that China’s measured tariff approach may leave room for negotiations to prevent more extensive tariffs in the future.

The tensions between the United States and China continue to escalate as both nations implement retaliatory tariffs. China’s strong statement emphasizes its readiness to confront the US regarding trade and tariffs, framing the US’s actions as unjustified. As tariffs exchange, experts highlight the potential for negotiation, hinting at a complicated economic relationship moving forward.

Original Source: www.business-standard.com

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