In the face of the US bullying behavior by using tariffs as a weapon to exert “maximum pressure” on all trading partners, China has firmly upheld the rules-based multilateral trading system by taking countermeasures, demonstrating its commitment as a responsible major country in maintaining fairness and justice in global trade.
US President Donald Trump on Sunday pledged that he will still apply tariffs to phones, computers and popular consumer electronics, downplaying a weekend exemption, Bloomberg reported.
This is far from the first reversal since April 2, when the US announced its “reciprocal tariffs” on global trade partners. The arbitrary, chaotic and unpredictable nature of US tariff policies has caused severe turbulence in global financial markets. More alarmingly, this policy environment makes it nearly impossible for businesses to conduct long-term supply chain planning, eroding the fundamental trust that underpins international commerce.
While it seems that the US may have recognized something went wrong, it still stubbornly refuses to acknowledge the fundamental error of its tariff war, which is actually destroying the very trading architecture that fueled postwar American prosperity. Without this crucial realization, meaningful correction remains impossible.
The Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act of 1930, which imposed steep tariffs on more than 20,000 imported goods, is often cited as a significant factor that contributed to the Great Depression, resulting in a staggering 66 percent decline in international trade between 1929 and 1934. Today, as the US appears to be repeating this catastrophic mistake by implementing similar protectionist measures, there are growing concerns among economists and policymakers that such actions could again stifle global trade, disrupt supply chains and ultimately hinder economic recovery and growth.
The hegemonic behavior of the US constitutes a blatant violation of international justice. By prioritizing narrow self-interest over global stability, the US has exposed its myopic and irresponsible mindset. It mistakenly believes that it has unchecked power to force global trade to serve its own interests.
At this critical juncture, China has stepped forward resolutely. Through official statements condemning unilateralism and firm advocacy at the WTO, China has taken resolute countermeasures. This is not only a strong rebuttal to US unilateralism but also a firm defense of the multilateral trading system. As the world’s largest developing country and one of the most significant trading nations, China recognizes its responsibility to uphold the global economic order, a commitment underscored by its consistent defense of the global trade order, the trading system and trade rules.
In the face of Washington’s maximum pressure tactics, Beijing has kept the door open for negotiations while making comprehensive preparations to withstand any potential shocks. China’s ability and confidence in countering any trade bullying comes from its vast domestic market, complete industrial system and growing technological innovation capabilities.
While China never initiates trade disputes on purpose, it will never back down from hegemonic actions. China’s stance has been consistent: If the US wants to talk, our door remains open, but dialogue must be conducted on the basis of mutual respect and equality. If the US wants to fight, our response will continue to the end. Pressure, threats and blackmail will never work with China, said He Yongqian, a spokesperson of China’s Ministry of Commerce. The US should correct its wrong practices and create an atmosphere and conditions for equal dialogue.
The contrast between the US and Chinese trade approaches couldn’t be clearer. As the US tears down rules, China works to improve them. As Washington creates disruption to supply chains, Beijing fosters cooperation. As the US wields tariff sticks, China further opens its doors. This stark comparison has helped the international community recognize who truly safeguards common global interests and who undermines the foundations of worldwide prosperity.
What the global economy needs most are openness and predictable development opportunities. As a responsible major power, China continues to contribute to building a more open world economy, recognizing that the trend of economic globalization is unstoppable. This open posture not only helps stabilize global markets but also reinvigorates the multilateral trading system with fresh momentum.
