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Regarding your latest documents on the U.S. imposing tariffs as steep as 104 per cent Regarding Chinese products as of April 9, I wish to reaffirm the firm stance of the Chinese government.
Despite significant opposition from the global community, the United States has enacted across-the-board increases in tariffs against all trade partners under questionable justifications. This action epitomizes unilateralism, protectionism, and economic coercion, significantly encroaching upon the rightful benefits of various nations. It heavily damages the rule-driven multilateral trading framework and substantially upsets the worldwide economic stability.
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The United States’ aggressive implementation of tariffs as steep as 104 percent on Chinese products amounts to outright coercion and extortion, a stance that China strongly opposes. These measures taken by the U.S. do not contribute to making America great again; rather, they portray America as a savage force in the modern era.
Based on your report, the United States claims China really wants to strike a deal urgently but is unsure about initiating the process. We are awaiting their phone call.
The truth is that it is the United States that doesn’t know how to initiate things properly. It also fails to grasp the essence of engaging with China or other nations. Rather than learning proper diplomacy, it fixates on the “art” of intimidating and coercing the global community.
We must solemnly tell the US: a tariff-wielding barbarian who attempts to force countries to call and beg for mercy can never expect that call from China. In a phone call with then US president-elect Donald Trump back in January, President Xi Jinping clearly stated that China-US economic ties are mutually beneficial and win-win, and neither confrontation nor conflict should be an option for the two countries; the two sides should follow the principles of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation, and work more closely together.
Unfortunately, the United States has ignored China's well-intentioned counsel. Should the U.S. genuinely wish to initiate discussions with China regarding tariffs, it must promptly rectify its incorrect actions and embrace an approach based on parity, esteem, and reciprocal advantage. Nevertheless, if the U.S. persists down this erroneous path, China will undoubtedly stand firm until the bitter end!
Given that the high US tariffs also affect Hong Kong, I want to emphasize that the situation will not lead to catastrophe due to Hong Kong’s distinctive position of having support from mainland China alongside its global connections.
We trust that with the strong backing of the central government and the people of our nation, Hong Kong has the ability to weather this crisis. Once through the storm, the Oriental Pearl, unafraid of wind or rain, will glow more brilliantly than ever before.
Huang Jingrui, spokesman for the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Hong Kong
To counteract the impact of Trump's tariffs, consider implementing international tax measures.
The U.S. retaliatory tariffs affect over 180 nations and regions worldwide, with Asia-Pacific exporters suffering significantly. In our analysis of this situation, I feel that the political underpinnings driving these tariffs warrant greater scrutiny.
At their core, these tariffs serve both immediate political advantages and economic interests. They have the potential to push various economies towards lowering or eliminating trade restrictions with the United States. If administrations yield under U.S. pressure—especially from the Trump government—they can readily showcase such compromises as undeniable proof that the U.S. was being mistreated. This strategy builds up internal political support but does so at the expense of overall economic health.
This implies that proactively negotiating tariffs might not be the best approach for governments. For Trump, reciprocal tariffs aren’t fixed rules but rather a beginning point; they serve as tools for negotiations.
Governments face significant challenges, yet using tariffs as leverage is not likely to remain effective indefinitely. The current situation—retaliatory measures from key economic powers, dramatic drops in stock markets, rising prices, and widespread public demonstrations—suggests that the impact of these tariff shocks needs to be mitigated before they devastate the U.S. economy and erode the political backing achieved thus far.
At some stage, the economic necessity would compel the Trump administration to terminate the reciprocal tariffs. Consequently, governments that rush into talks might agree to terms more favorable to their counterparts who choose to bide their time before negotiating.
How should we handle reciprocal tariffs? Enhancing international collaboration on taxation of digital services and establishing a worldwide minimal corporate tax rate deserves more attention. Most OECD member nations have agreed upon these measures, but the United States hasn’t joined this consensus yet. Taking joint actions regarding digital service charges and multinational earnings might substantially increase expenses for American businesses and customers. This increased cost could create significant political pressure, which may be used as bargaining power during tariff talks.
Kung-Chen Chen, a PhD candidate in political science at the University of Maryland
What verdict will history deliver on Trump?
Even the most loyal advocates of the present U.S. leadership would be hard-pressed to ignore that the nation has experienced more prosperous times under previous administrations: such as resolving the Cuban Missile Crisis, concluding the Cold War, and facilitating dialogue between Israel and Palestine — the array of achievements both internationally and domestically is extensive.
Recently, the situation has dramatically deteriorated. Following the declaration of an aggressive approach, US tariffs policy , global stock markets plunged and remain volatile President Donald Trump defends the tariffs by arguing that the United States has suffered unfair damage from trade imbalances with nations worldwide, and he contends that this inequity can only be rectified through the implementation of such taxes.
Someone with even a fundamental knowledge of economics understands that tariffs disrupt free trade—which is considered ideal from an economic perspective—and the nation implementing these tariffs will face consequences, regardless of whether their trading partners respond with reciprocal measures.
From the way Trump conducted himself When he met with the Ukrainian President and implemented tariffs on trading partners, it appears evident that his primary concern is maintaining a positive self-image, regardless of the impact these policies may have on others. average American .
Ignore the lengthy tradition of the U.S. assuming the role of the morally superior nation. Trump aims to be seen as the formidable figure that no one would dare challenge. Additionally, he has ambitions of serving a third term as President of the United States.
If the US during earlier administrations acted like a witch-hunter—attempting to unearth head of finance at Huawei extradited to the US, attacking TikTok Due to alleged threats to national security and similar reasons, the present US administration has taken on the role of a witch hunter. They blame others around the globe for their internal economic issues without any hesitation.
Trump faces no real threats; with ample financial resources, an economic slump would scarcely affect his lifestyle, regardless of whether he secures a third term. Those most adversely affected will likely be individuals experiencing higher costs, particularly those who were swayed by Trump’s assertive persona and supported him as a result.
Only time will reveal how this U.S. president, who pardoned Criminals sentenced for their involvement in the riots at Capitol Hill solely because they backed him will be recorded in history texts. However, I strongly suspect that the consequences for Trump won’t be particularly favorable.
Andy Jou, Quarry Bay
The world's police officer has endured the cost for far too long.
President Donald Trump’s aggressive move with tariffs has sparked expected criticism from experts and international figures, yet this outcry overlooks the main issue. The tariffs aren’t signs of withdrawal; rather, they’re efforts to sustain global stability. For far too long, the United States, being the leading economy and key stabilizer worldwide, has shouldered the responsibility for maintaining both peace and economic growth alone, even as others benefit without contributing their part. Trump’s revised approach aims merely to ensure every nation contributes fairly towards these shared goals.
In past administrations, the United States accepted persistent trade deficits, offshoring of industries, and increasing national debt—meanwhile maintaining its role as the cornerstone of worldwide financial security and technological advancement. However, under Trump’s leadership, this approach has been reversed. He is tackling the deep-seated issues that had previously rendered the U.S. economically susceptible.
As prosperity returns with the tariff reforms and his practical energy and tax strategies, these measures will help mitigate any inflationary pressures from the tariffs. The United States can anticipate a sustainable debt-to-GDP ratio, reduced interest rates, and a balanced budget for the first time in 20 years.
Trump's three-pronged approach - cutting government waste, generating new revenue through tariffs and deregulation, and introducing initiatives like the "gold card" visa programme - is functioning. These aren’t quick fixes; they are enduring adjustments to reinstate worldwide equilibrium.
Even amidst the uproar, imposing tariffs makes practical sense. The United States continues to be the largest consumer marketplace globally. Countries contemplating retaliatory tariffs might end up hurting themselves more significantly than the U.S.
A secure and robust America ensures a secure and resilient world. Be it during the post-war period marked by tranquility or when lives are saved via technological advancements, American efforts have been pivotal for years of steadiness. The tariffs imposed by Trump do not signify withdrawal but rather accountability. Should the U.S. keep losing out due to inequitable trade practices, it might falter—alongside potentially bringing down the international system.
Trump's strategies aren’t rooted in nationalism; they're an exercise in pragmatic realism. This serves as a jolt to friends, adversaries, and collaborators, emphasizing that global stability comes at a cost. For far too long, America has borne this expense alone.
Collins Chong Yew Keat, an international relations specialist from the University of Malaya, focuses on analyzing diplomatic matters.
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The article initially appeared on the South China Morning Post (www.scmp.com), which is the premier source for news coverage of China and Asia.
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