China has openly called for international unity against Trump’s tariffs, which have stunned its fragile economy. State-run China Daily urged countries like Japan and South Korea to stand with Beijing against trade tyranny.
Another editorial encouraged Europe to defend free trade by resisting Washington’s aggressive economic strategy. At a press briefing, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian condemned the move, accusing the United States of hegemonic and bullying practices.
These record-breaking tariffs hit China’s economy hard, and it relies heavily on sluggish exports and weak consumer demand. Chinese exporters say they are scrambling to rebuild supply chains amid unpredictable levies that span much of Southeast Asia.
A logistics firm owner described it as a fatal blow that slashes margins already stretched to the limit by rising costs. Many exporters, like Fuling, which supplies packaging to fast food giants like McDonald’s, report immediate damage.
The company said that nearly two-thirds of its revenue last year came from the US and that Trump’s move would significantly impact future sales. Even its new factory in Indonesia faces hurdles. Despite relocation efforts, Indonesia has also been hit by a 32% tariff under Trump’s sweeping trade policy.
Some Chinese officials reportedly consider retaliatory steps like banning Hollywood films or halting fentanyl cooperation. Yet experts warn those efforts offer little relief for companies hemorrhaging revenue in global markets.
Trump’s import overhang overhaul placed a 10% tariff on nearly all foreign goods, with especially steep penalties for countries like Vietnam and Cambodia. Chinese entrepreneurs advise Beijing to negotiate, but Trump has not spoken with Xi Jinping since retaking office. The American Chamber of Commerce in China warned that Trump’s tariffs could trigger a recession and damage global supply chains.
