Tensions between the United States and China have escalated following a fresh round of tariffs imposed by the Trump administration.
In response, the Chinese Embassy in Washington issued a strong statement, warning that Beijing is prepared to retaliate.
The U.S. government recently announced an additional 10% tariff on Chinese imports, citing China’s alleged role in the fentanyl crisis.
The new tariffs, which took effect on Tuesday, March 4, come on top of an existing 10% tariff, effectively doubling trade restrictions on Chinese goods. The move also targets imports from Canada and Mexico over similar concerns.
China, however, has dismissed the fentanyl issue as a mere pretext for economic pressure.
The Chinese Foreign Ministry condemned the tariffs, arguing that Beijing has made significant efforts to curb fentanyl production and has cooperated with Washington in tackling drug trafficking.
“The U.S., not China, is responsible for the fentanyl crisis,” the ministry said. “Instead of acknowledging our efforts, they are using tariffs as blackmail. They are punishing us for helping them.”
The Chinese Embassy in the U.S. took an even more defiant stance, posting a strongly worded message on X :
“If the U.S. truly wants to solve the fentanyl issue, then the right thing to do is to consult with China by treating each other as equals. If war is what the U.S. wants, be it a tariff war, a trade war, or any other type of war, we’re ready to fight till the end.”
The tariffs are expected to affect nearly $2.2 trillion in annual trade between the two nations, raising concerns about higher consumer prices and potential disruptions to global supply chains.
During a Congressional hearing, former President Donald Trump defended the measures, stating that they were necessary to correct long-standing trade imbalances.
He also announced plans for further tariffs on April 2, including “reciprocal tariffs” against countries imposing high duties on American goods.
“Other countries have used tariffs against us for decades, and now it’s our turn,” Trump said, pointing to India, South Korea, the European Union, and China as examples.