As the trade conflict between China and the United States takes on new dimensions, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Beijing held a press conference on Thursday, shedding light on tariffs and relations with Washington.

“Trade Wars Have No Winners”

When questioned about the tariffs, Lin Jian, the ministry’s spokesperson, accused the United States of “using commerce as a weapon for maximum pressure and pursuing selfish objectives.”

“This move isn’t just against China. It’s an attack on the entire world,” Lin asserted. Concerning China’s response—an 84% tariff on American goods—he described it as “a necessary countermeasure against the US’s abuse,” intending to protect China’s sovereignty, uphold international justice, and safeguard global community interests.

“Trade wars have no winners. China doesn’t want them, but it isn’t afraid of them. If the US decides to fight, China will see it through to the end,” Lin warned.

Responding to inquiries about China’s reaction to Trump’s claims of awaiting an invitation from Beijing to start negotiations, Lin was candid:

“Pressure, threats, and blackmail aren’t the way to resolve issues with China. If the US wishes to talk, it must demonstrate equality, respect, and mutual benefit.” He reiterated that China didn’t start a trade war, but if pushed, “will fight to the end.”

Bridgewater’s Founder Urges US-China Negotiations

Regarding the American tariffs’ impact on the rest of the world, Lin accused the US of “tightening other countries’ throats” to force concessions, describing it as a method of coercion aimed at dominating international trade order. In this context, the Chinese minister also touched on relations with the European Union, praising the Spanish government’s intention to deepen trade ties with China despite US warnings.

From the United States, Ray Dalio, the founder of Bridgewater, the world’s largest hedge fund, urged the White House to engage in mutually beneficial negotiations with China. In a social media post, Dalio remarked that now is “an excellent time for all involved parties to reconsider their approaches,” acknowledging America’s genuine trade challenges.

In his view, the next step for the Trump administration should be to reduce the US budget deficit to 3% of the GDP. Earlier this year, the US budget deficit surpassed one trillion dollars.

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