China warns of retaliation against countries supporting US in isolating Beijing, escalating trade tensions.

From CNBC: 2025-04-20 22:29:00

China warned of retaliation against countries cooperating with the U.S. to isolate Beijing’s interests amidst the trade war. The Ministry of Commerce stated opposition to deals at China’s expense and vowed to take reciprocal measures. Analysts predict no deal soon, despite Trump’s optimism for an agreement within three to four weeks.

In a shift to a harder stance, China retaliated against U.S. tariffs with 125% levies on American goods and restrictions on critical minerals exports. Xi Jinping’s recent trip to Vietnam, Malaysia, and Cambodia emphasized joint opposition to tariffs and “unilateral bullying.” China increased trade with Southeast Asia amid the ongoing trade war.

China replaced its top trade negotiator with Li Chenggang and filed a lawsuit against the U.S. with the WTO over Trump’s latest tariff increases. The U.S. plans to use tariff negotiations to pressure partners to limit dealings with China, with Trump halting major tariff increases on other countries for 90 days while raising duties on Chinese goods to 145%.

Read more: China to retaliate against nations that work with U.S. to isolate Beijing