China is actively reaching out to other nations as the United States continues to impose tariffs, with President Donald Trump adding more pressure to the ongoing trade conflict. This strategy seems aimed at building a united front to challenge the U.S., but its success has been limited as some countries remain hesitant to align with China in the face of Trump’s escalating tariffs.
In response to a global market downturn, Trump announced a 90-day delay on tariffs for most nations, claiming that countries were eager to negotiate better terms. However, China has remained firm in its refusal to engage in talks, labeling U.S. actions as insincere and escalating the tariff war further. As a result, the tariff rate on Chinese imports has now risen to 125%, while China retaliates with tariffs of 84% on U.S. goods.
China’s Diplomatic Efforts
As the trade war intensifies, China has focused much of its diplomatic efforts on Europe. Premier Li Qiang recently spoke with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, emphasizing the importance of strengthening China-EU trade relations. The two leaders represent the largest trading partners in the world, and their conversation aimed to signal a commitment to continued cooperation.
According to Xinhua News Agency, the leaders discussed efforts to implement key agreements reached between China and the EU, including expanding trade, investment, and industrial collaboration. Following the call, Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao held a video conference with EU Trade Commissioner Šefčović to further address the U.S. tariffs.
Wang criticized the U.S. tariffs, calling them a violation of international trade rules and a threat to the global economic order. He described the U.S. actions as “unilateralism, protectionism, and economic bullying.” While China expressed willingness to engage in negotiations, Wang emphasized that the country would continue to resist U.S. demands if Washington remains inflexible.
China’s Stand Against U.S. Actions
China’s stance on the tariffs is clear: the country is prepared to confront the U.S. head-on. Premier Li assured that China had thoroughly assessed the situation and was ready to introduce additional policies as needed. “We are prepared for all uncertainties,” Li said, according to Xinhua.
China has also reached out to other nations, including the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), in an effort to gather broader international support. However, not all countries are eager to side with China.
Global Responses
Some nations have made it clear they are not ready to ally with China, especially those with historical tensions with Beijing. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated that his country would continue to promote free and fair trade but would prioritize its national interests above any alliance with China. This statement comes after China imposed unofficial trade barriers on Australia in 2020 following Australia’s call for an independent inquiry into the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Similarly, India is reportedly not interested in cooperating with China on the tariff issue. Despite these rejections, China continues to push for international cooperation to challenge U.S. actions.
Russia’s Neutral Stance
While China’s closest geopolitical partner, Russia, is not subject to the U.S. tariffs, it has not actively joined China in pushing back against U.S. trade policies. Russia’s lack of involvement in this trade dispute has raised questions about the depth of the relationship between the two countries, especially in the context of the ongoing economic pressure from the U.S.
As the trade war between the U.S. and China intensifies, both countries continue to maneuver for global support. While China has made diplomatic overtures, it faces resistance from key nations, including Australia and India. Meanwhile, Trump’s tariffs continue to disrupt international trade, and global markets remain volatile. The coming months will be critical as both sides prepare for potential negotiations or further escalation of the trade conflict.
