China opposes any deals between U.S., other nations at its expense

China warns countries seeking tariff exemptions from the U.S. to limit trade with China or face countermeasures.

China respects all parties resolving economic and trade differences with the United States through consultation on an equal footing, but it will firmly oppose any party striking a deal at China’s expense, its Commerce Ministry said on Monday (April 21, 2025).

China “will take countermeasures in a resolute and reciprocal manner” if any country sought such deals, a ministry spokesperson said, addressing news about the Trump administration preparing to pressure other countries to limit trade with China in exchange for tariff exemptions from the United States.

“The United States has abused tariffs on all trading partners under the banner of so-called ‘equivalence’, while also forcing all parties to start so-called ‘reciprocal tariffs’ negotiations with them,” the spokesperson said, warning that any compromise would not be respected.

China is determined and capable of safeguarding its own rights and interests, and is willing to strengthen solidarity with all parties, the ministry said.

The Trump administration is preparing to pressure nations seeking tariff reductions or exemptions from the U.S. to curb trade with China, including imposing monetary sanctions, Bloomberg reported, citing sources familiar with the matter.

Earlier this month, U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said nearly 50 countries have approached him to discuss the steep additional tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump.

Mr. Trump paused the historic tariffs he announced on dozens of countries on April 2, except those on China, singling out the world’s second largest economy for some of its biggest tariffs.