China Expresses ‘Serious Concerns’ Over Trump’s Tariffs

Tensions continue to rise between the US and China following Donald Trump’s decision to impose tariffs on imports. Chinese Trade Envoy He Lifeng expressed ‘serious concerns’ over Trump’s new tariffs on Chinese imports during a phone call with US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. According to CCTV, Lifeng criticized the recent restrictive measures, particularly the increased customs duties imposed by the US on China. Since the beginning of his second term in late January, President Trump has highlighted tariffs as a key tool in his policy to reduce the significant trade deficit of his country. In early February, he imposed additional 10% tariffs on all products imported from China, the nation with the largest trade surplus with the US in goods ($295.4 billion in 2024 according to the Office of Economic Analysis). However, on Wednesday, the American president suggested that a trade agreement with China is ‘possible.’ Both parties exchanged detailed views on significant economic issues concerning a potential consensus between the two countries, CCTV reported. The network stated that Lifeng and Bessent recognized the importance of economic and trade relations between China and the US and agreed to continue communication on mutual concerns. The phone call took place at Bessent’s request. When questioned about Trump’s statements on Thursday (February 20, 2025), Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jakun urged for de-escalation. ‘Trade and tariff wars have no winners and only harm the interests of people worldwide,’ he emphasized before reporters. ‘Both sides should resolve their respective issues through dialogue and consultation based on mutual equality and respect.’ In response to the US measure, Beijing imposed 15% tariffs on coal and liquefied natural gas and 10% on oil and other American products (agricultural machinery, vehicles…), albeit much less significant proportionally.