The Chinese Embassy in the U.S. has issued a firm response to the Trump administration’s recent tariff hikes, emphasizing the need for equal consultation in addressing the fentanyl crisis.
The tariffs, which took effect on Tuesday, March 4, impose an additional 10% charge on Chinese goods, doubling the previous rate.
The move has escalated tensions between the two economic giants, with China rejecting the U.S.’s justification for the tariffs.
The Chinese Embassy took to X (formerly Twitter) to express its stance, stating, “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.”
Meanwhile, the Chinese foreign ministry dismissed the fentanyl issue as an excuse for the tariff increase.
A ministry spokesperson reinforced China’s position, stating, “The U.S., not anyone else, is responsible for the fentanyl crisis.
In the spirit of humanity and goodwill towards the American people, we have taken robust steps to assist the U.S. in dealing with the issue.
Instead of recognizing our efforts, the U.S. has sought to smear and shift blame to China and is seeking to pressure and blackmail China with tariff hikes.
They’ve been punishing us for helping them. This is not going to solve the U.S.’s problem and will undermine our counternarcotics dialogue and cooperation.”
The tariffs, which also target imports from Canada and Mexico, have sparked economic concerns.
Trade analysts warn that the measures could disrupt an estimated $2.2 trillion in annual trade, further straining U.S. businesses and consumers already grappling with inflation.
President Trump, speaking before Congress, defended the tariffs as part of a broader strategy to address trade imbalances.
He announced plans for additional tariff measures set to take effect on April 2, including “reciprocal tariffs” on goods from countries that impose high duties on U.S. exports.
“Other countries have used tariffs against us for decades, and now it’s our turn,” Trump stated, citing nations such as India, South Korea, China, and the European Union.
As tensions mount, economists stress the importance of diplomatic engagement to prevent further economic fallout.
The fentanyl crisis remains a critical issue, but experts argue that addressing it effectively requires collaboration rather than escalating trade disputes.
