China has warned other countries not to support the US during trade negotiations. This warning came after reports claimed the US planned to pressure nations to limit trade with China in return for tariff exemptions.

US Opens Trade Talks with Allies

The Trump administration has already started discussions with key partners. For instance, Japan sent a delegation to Washington last week. Similarly, South Korea is preparing to begin talks this week.

Since returning to power in January, President Trump has raised tariffs on Chinese goods. In addition, other nations have faced taxes on their exports to the US.

China Responds Firmly

In response, China criticized this approach. A commerce ministry spokesperson said, "Appeasement cannot bring peace, and compromise cannot earn one respect."

He further warned, "China firmly opposes any party reaching a deal at the expense of China's interests. If this happens, China will never accept it and will resolutely take countermeasures."

Chinese Media Echoes the Warning

Likewise, China’s state-run newspaper China Daily repeated this message last week. It advised the European Union not to try to “appease” the US.

Moreover, the warnings followed reports that Washington plans to use tariff talks to convince countries to block trade with China.

Meanwhile, the BBC has asked both the US Treasury Department and the US Trade Representative for comments. However, they have not yet responded.

Trade Partners Caught in the Middle

President Trump said more than 70 countries reached out to discuss trade after he announced the new tariffs.

Jesper Koll of Monex Group explained, "If you put the numbers on it, about 20% of Japan's profitability comes from the United States, about 15% comes from the People's Republic of China."

He also added, "Certainly, Japan doesn't want to [have to] choose between America and the People's Republic of China."

Japan’s chief trade negotiator, Ryosei Akazawa, already met with Trump in Washington. Furthermore, South Korea’s acting president, Han Duck-soo, announced that his country would start similar talks later this week.

India Faces High Tariff Risk

In addition, US Vice President JD Vance is visiting India this week. He will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi. If India does not agree to a trade deal, the country may face a 26% tariff rate.

Trump Defends His Tariff Plan

President Trump claims his tariff policy will benefit Americans. According to him, these import taxes will:

• Encourage Americans to buy local goods

• Raise tax revenue

• Attract investment into the US

However, critics disagree. They argue that moving manufacturing back to the US is difficult. In fact, it could take years and may hurt the economy in the short term.

Trump Softens Some Tariffs

Earlier this month, Trump changed his position slightly. Just hours after the tariffs took effect, he delayed them for 90 days for most countries — except China. He made this move after growing criticism from lawmakers and markets.

Currently, the US has imposed tariffs of up to 145% on Chinese imports. Other nations face a 10% general tariff until July. When added to previous taxes, some Chinese products could face a total of 245% in tariffs.

In retaliation, China placed a 125% tax on US goods. It also vowed to "fight to the end."

Global Markets React

As a result, the trade war between the US and China has shaken financial markets. Earlier this month, it caused major disruptions worldwide.