China Warns Retaliation if US Trade Deals Undermine Its Interests
China has issued a strong warning to countries considering trade agreements with the United States that could harm its economic interests. With a key tariff suspension deadline approaching on July 9, Beijing cautioned that it will respond with “firm and resolute countermeasures” against any deal that compromises its strategic position.
The statement, released by China’s Ministry of Commerce, signals growing unease in Beijing as several U.S. allies—including key Asian and European economies—race to secure preferential trade terms with Washington before the expiration of a 90-day pause on reciprocal tariffs.
Rising Tensions Over Trade Truce Deadline
The July 9 deadline marks the end of a temporary truce on tariffs that were mutually imposed earlier this year. In anticipation, many countries are accelerating negotiations with the U.S. to lock in agreements that may shield them from renewed levies. Beijing, however, has made it clear that such deals must not come at China’s expense.
It has warned nations against using Chinese market access or supply chains as “bargaining chips” to gain favor with Washington. The message is clear: China will not tolerate being sidelined in global trade dynamics for the benefit of American strategic positioning.
Push for Multilateralism Amid Unilateral Moves
Beijing reiterated its stance that trade disputes should be addressed through equal consultations and multilateral frameworks—not through bilateral pressures or targeted concessions. It condemned what it described as “tariff bullying” by the U.S., and called for fair and balanced treatment under global trade norms.
Officials argue that the U.S. is attempting to exploit short-term economic uncertainty to forge one-sided deals, undermining long-standing trading principles. In response, China has vowed to respond to any such moves that negatively impact its economy or global standing.
