China’s Foreign Ministry has fired back at the United States over its recent decision to increase tariffs on Chinese imports, accusing Washington of using the fentanyl crisis as a flimsy pretext. In a pointed statement on Tuesday, spokesperson Lin Jian declared that if the US intends to wage a trade war, China is fully prepared to “fight till the end.”
Tariff Hike and Fentanyl Allegations
Responding to questions from The New York Times, Lin Jian criticised the US move to raise tariffs on most Chinese goods from 10% to 20%. “The fentanyl issue is merely an excuse to justify these tariff increases,” he said, emphasizing that China’s countermeasures to protect its rights and interests are both legitimate and necessary. Lin further asserted that the US is, in fact, responsible for its own fentanyl crisis.
Call for Genuine Dialogue
In his remarks, Lin Jian underscored China’s willingness to assist the United States in addressing the fentanyl problem. “In the spirit of humanity and goodwill, we have taken robust steps to help the American people deal with this crisis,” he stated. However, instead of acknowledging these efforts, the US has chosen to shift blame to China and pressure the country with tariff hikes. “Intimidation does not scare us. Bullying does not work on us,” Lin added, urging the US to engage in equal and respectful consultations if it truly wants to resolve the issue.
Retaliatory Tariffs and Trade Tensions
The heightened rhetoric comes on the heels of the Trump administration’s recent tariff increases on Chinese imports. In retaliation, China has announced a series of counter-tariffs on US agricultural products. Specifically, tariffs of 15% have been imposed on imports of chicken, wheat, corn, and cotton, while a 10% duty targets sorghum, soybeans, pork, beef, aquatic products, fruits, vegetables, and dairy products. Additionally, China’s Ministry of Commerce has placed 15 American companies, including drone maker Skydio, on its export control list, limiting Chinese access to dual-use technology.
Alfredo Montufar-Helu, head of the China Center for the Conference Board, described China’s measures as “restrained and targeted,” aimed specifically at sectors critical to the US economy and its political supporters.
