China Asserts Readiness for Prolonged Conflict with U.S. Amid Tariff Dispute

China has declared its willingness to engage in a prolonged confrontation with the United States, as President Donald Trump intensifies both economic and political strains on the country.

In a statement posted on social media platform X, the Chinese Embassy in Washington expressed that, should the U.S. decide on conflict, be it through tariffs, trades, or other means, China is prepared to stand firm. This post reflects China's growing assertiveness in response to U.S. actions.

Later, a spokesperson for the Chinese foreign ministry criticized the U.S. justification relating to fentanyl for the imposition of tariffs, calling it unreasonable.

The spokesperson further cautioned against U.S. intentions to damage China's interests, urging Washington to abandon its domineering stance and revisit constructive dialogue promptly.

These comments were made in light of President Trump's new 10% tariff imposition on Chinese exports starting that Tuesday. This move increased the total tariff coverage to 20% within roughly a month.

In immediate retaliation, China introduced up to 15% additional tariffs on specific U.S. products and initiated new export control measures targeting certain American entities, starting March 10.

Lou Qinjian, serving as the spokesperson for China's significant political assembly, reaffirmed Beijing's stance that while disputes are inevitable, coercion or threats from the U.S. will not be tolerated.

Following the initial wave of U.S. tariffs in February, China responded by tagging two American companies on a list of unreliable entities, potentially limiting their operations within China.

According to estimates by Ting Lu from Nomura, the effective average tariff rate imposed by the U.S. on goods from China is expected to climb to 33%, a significant rise from roughly 13% before Donald Trump's latest presidential term began.

As China's annual political gathering commenced in Beijing, authorities focused on setting major economic objectives for 2025, alongside revealing comprehensive economic plans for the current year. This significant event is set to wrap up on March 11.