Summary
- China’s warning comes as Sino-US trade war escalates
- US pressures nations to reduce trade with China, a report says
- China says U.S. is abusing tariffs on all trading partners
- ASEAN caught in crossfire of Sino-U.S. trade row
China has intensified its criticism of the United States’ global trade tactics, accusing Washington of “abusing tariffs” and strong-arming other nations into choosing sides in a rapidly deteriorating trade conflict between the world’s two largest economies.
Beijing’s stern warning came in response to reports that the U.S. is pressuring countries seeking tariff relief to scale back trade with China—threatening monetary sanctions on those who do not comply. China’s Commerce Ministry condemned the move, vowing “resolute and reciprocal countermeasures” against any nation that strikes a deal at its expense.
“The United States has abused tariffs on all trading partners under the banner of so-called ‘equivalence’,” said a ministry spokesperson. “China is determined and capable of defending its interests.”
The sharp rhetoric reflects growing concern in Beijing that Washington’s aggressive trade strategy could fracture global supply chains and corner developing economies into unwanted choices.
Global South Balancing Act
As tensions deepen, developing nations across Asia, Latin America, and Africa find themselves navigating treacherous terrain.
China’s President Xi Jinping recently toured Southeast Asia, calling for nations to “oppose unilateral bullying” and back multilateral trade partnerships. At the same time, U.S. economic officials have hosted ministers from Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia in Washington, with promises of enhanced market access—if they distance themselves from Beijing.
But analysts say the divide isn’t so simple.
“If countries have high reliance on China in terms of investment, technology and consumption, I don’t think they’ll be buying into U.S. demands,” said Bo Zhengyuan of Plenum, a policy consultancy based in Beijing.
Africa Watching Closely
While Africa has yet to be directly drawn into the tariff crossfire, the continent is watching closely. China remains Africa’s largest bilateral trading partner, with deep investments in infrastructure, mining, manufacturing, and energy across the continent. The U.S., meanwhile, is reinvigorating its economic push under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) and other bilateral deals.
A shift in global trade patterns could offer new export opportunities—but also pose risks for African industries reliant on Chinese inputs or American markets.
“Africa has to stay agile,” said Damilola Obafemi, a Lagos-based trade economist. “There’s opportunity in non-alignment, but pressure is mounting. We need a strategy that maximizes partnerships without getting caught in someone else’s trade war.”
Markets Nervous, Stakes Rising
Despite China’s combative tone, Chinese stocks showed little reaction Monday. Still, investors remain wary. The Trump administration’s sweeping tariffs—reaching up to 145% on Chinese imports—have been matched by Beijing’s 125% retaliatory duties, sparking fears of prolonged economic disruption.
Tech giants are already feeling the heat. Nvidia last week said U.S. chip export restrictions would cost it $5.5 billion. Meanwhile, China faces new port fees aimed at curbing its dominance in global shipbuilding.
China will take its grievances to the global stage this week, hosting an informal United Nations Security Council meeting where it plans to accuse the U.S. of “weaponizing tariffs” and undermining global peace and development.
“There are no winners in trade wars,” Xi wrote in an op-ed published in Vietnamese media.
Looking Ahead
With ASEAN now China’s largest trading partner, and the U.S. closely behind, the next moves by smaller economies—including many in Africa—could determine whether this trade war expands into a broader geopolitical showdown.
Africa’s economic ministers are quietly reviewing regional trade strategies. Some are exploring deeper ties with BRICS+ partners; others are watching Washington’s next move.
As the dust settles on today’s diplomacy, one thing is clear: the Global South may not want to choose sides—but it might be forced to.
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