China: Beijing Opposes Any Trade Deal That Detracts from Its Interests

The Chinese Ministry of Commerce confirmed on Thursday that Beijing firmly opposes any country entering into trade deals at the expense of Chinese interests.

“China is assessing relevant developments,” ministry spokeswoman He Yongqian said in a press statement regarding the trade deal reached by the United States and Vietnam.

She added that the United States’ imposition of so-called “reciprocal tariffs” on its trading partners is a typical act of unilateral bullying, which China consistently opposes.

The spokesperson explained that China supports efforts by other countries to resolve trade disputes with the United States through equal consultations, but firmly opposes any country reaching a deal at the expense of China’s interests.

The spokesperson concluded her remarks by saying, “If such a situation arises, China will take resolute countermeasures to safeguard its legitimate rights and interests.” US President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday that he had reached a trade agreement with Vietnam under which US products entering the country will be exempt from customs duties, while Vietnamese exports to the United States will be subject to an additional duty of at least 20%.