China has warned that US President Donald Trump’s trade tactics will backfire, likening the approach to “bargaining with a tiger for its skin”. China’s Commerce Ministry said Trump’s trade policies, including tariffs on Chinese goods, would ultimately harm American businesses and consumers.
“We believe that the US approach is like bargaining with a tiger for its skin before it’s even been caught,” said Commerce Ministry spokesperson Gao Feng. “This approach will not only fail to achieve its intended goals but also harm the interests of relevant Chinese and American companies and people.”
Gao added that China is willing to work with the US to find a solution to trade issues, but only on the basis of equality and mutual respect. “China and the US have differing views on trade issues, but we are willing to work together to find a solution through dialogue and consultation,” Gao said.
The comments come as the US and China continue to trade blows over tariffs, with the US imposing tariffs on billions of dollars’ worth of Chinese goods. China has retaliated with tariffs on US goods, leading to concerns about a potential trade war.
“We hope that the US will take a rational and responsible approach to handling trade issues,” Gao said. “Only through cooperation and mutual respect can we achieve a win-win outcome.”