Thu Mar 06 12:43:55 UTC 2025: ## China Defiant Amidst US Tariffs, Vows to Weather Trade War
**Beijing, March 6, 2025** – China has vowed to resist pressure from the United States and weather the impact of increased tariffs, asserting that its economy is resilient and possesses diverse trade options. Commerce Minister Wang Wentao, speaking at the annual session of China’s national congress, reiterated Beijing’s willingness to negotiate but emphasized that coercion would be met with countermeasures.
Mr. Wang dismissed claims that China is solely responsible for the US fentanyl crisis, a justification cited by the Trump administration for imposing tariffs. He highlighted China’s extensive global trade partnerships – including being the main trading partner for 140 countries and having free trade agreements with over 30 – as evidence of its economic strength and diversification. While acknowledging challenges faced by Chinese exporters, he outlined government support measures, including increased financial aid and promotion of global expansion.
Despite expressing openness to resolving trade disputes through dialogue, Mr. Wang warned that further escalation by the US would prompt a strong response. “If the American side goes further down this wrong path, we will continue to respond in kind,” he stated, adding, “We will fight to the end.”
Concerns remain about China’s economic outlook. Zheng Shanjie, head of the National Development and Reform Commission, admitted that growth forecasts for 2025 are below the government’s target, citing factors such as a slump in the housing market and lingering effects from the COVID-19 pandemic. The government plans to address this through a new action plan to stimulate consumer spending and investment, along with increased spending on social welfare programs. Finance Minister Lan Fo-an promised further support for indebted local governments and investments in education, social security, and public health.
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