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Says US imposed over US$500bn tariffs on Chinese exports since 2018
By Aidoghie Paulinus, Abuja
Amid the escalating tariff war between the United States and China, the State Council Information Office of China has released a white paper titled “China’s Position on Some Issues Concerning China-US Economic and Trade Relations.” The document aims to clarify facts and outline China’s stance on these ties.
In its 52-page preface, the State Council describes China as the world’s largest developing country and a key driver of global economic growth, while portraying the US as the largest developed economy. It emphasises that China-US economic and trade relations are vital for both nations and global stability.
“The volume of trade between the two countries has surged from less than US$2.5 billion in 1979 to nearly US$688.3 billion in 2024,” the council notes, highlighting 46 years of steady growth since diplomatic ties began. This cooperation has significantly boosted economic and social development for both peoples.
However, the council warns that rising US unilateralism and protectionism have disrupted this progress.
“Since the trade friction began in 2018, the US has imposed tariffs on Chinese exports worth over US$500 billion and pursued policies to contain and suppress China,” it states. China has responded with countermeasures to protect its interests while engaging in multiple rounds of talks to stabilise relations.
The white paper references the Phase One Economic and Trade Agreement, signed on 15 January 2020. China claims it upheld the deal despite challenges like the pandemic and global recession, while accusing the US of tightening export controls, escalating sanctions, and breaching commitments.
Recently, the US introduced the America First Trade Policy Memorandum and additional tariffs—including those linked to fentanyl, “reciprocal tariffs,” and a 50 percent hike on existing duties—targeting Chinese maritime, logistics, and shipbuilding sectors.
“These restrictive measures escalate the problem, revealing the isolationist and coercive nature of US conduct,” the council argues, noting conflicts with market economy principles and multilateralism.
The Chinese government asserts that US tariffs disrupt global supply chains, undermine free trade, and harm economic development worldwide, including the wellbeing of Americans.
“China-US economic and trade relations are mutually beneficial and win-win in nature,” it insists. “As two major countries with different systems, differences are natural, but resolving them through dialogue while respecting core interests is crucial.”
The white paper, it concludes, seeks to set the record straight and clarify China’s position.