The Ministry of Commerce of China File photo: VCG

Responding to a question on whether China would impose higher tariffs against the US, after the US announced to increase tariffs against China to 125 percent or even 150 percent, China's Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) spokesperson He Yongqian said on Thursday that China firmly rejects the US' maximum pressure tactics and bullying behavior, and will take strong and resolute measures to safeguard its legitimate rights and interests.

"I could not comment on hypothetical questions. But I want to stress that there are no winners in a trade war, and protectionism leads nowhere. If the US insists on going its own way, China's response will continue to the end. We firmly reject the US' maximum pressure tactics and bullying behavior, and will take strong and resolute measures to safeguard our legitimate rights and interests," the spokesperson said at a press conference.

When asked what policies the MOFCOM will implement to help export companies alleviate the negative impact of trade tariffs, the spokesperson also added that China will remain focused on running its own affairs well, using China's certainty to offset the uncertainties of the external environment. 

China will also support foreign trade firms facing export difficulties in tapping into the domestic market, make full use of policies such as the trade-in program for consumer goods, and other initiatives to promote integration between domestic and foreign trade, He said.

China's super-large market potential continues to be released, and policies to stabilize the economy and foreign trade continue to be implemented. China's foreign trade has the confidence to deal with various risks and challenges, the spokesperson said.

Global Times