April 10, 2025 – Beijing
China has reiterated its long-standing position on international trade, emphasizing a commitment to open markets, mutual respect, and multilateral cooperation. The statement comes in response to mounting global interest following the United States’ recent decision to pause a new wave of tariffs, sparking speculation about Beijing’s next move.
Speaking at a press briefing on Thursday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Wei declared that China’s trade principles remain “clear, consistent, and rooted in fairness.”
“China has always advocated for resolving economic disputes through dialogue and negotiation, rather than unilateral actions,” Lin said. “Our position is not reactive. It reflects a steady commitment to global economic stability and the rules-based international order.”
This measured response follows former U.S. President Donald Trump’s surprise announcement to delay tariffs that had been expected to target key Chinese exports, including electronics and machinery. Trump’s decision triggered a historic rally in U.S. markets, with the Nasdaq Composite recording its best single-day performance since 2001.
China’s comments suggest it is seeking to avoid escalating tensions while maintaining a firm line on core trade principles. The country has long been a proponent of the World Trade Organization’s frameworks, even as it faces criticism over issues such as technology transfers and intellectual property protection.
“We welcome dialogue based on equality,” Lin added. “But we will also firmly safeguard our national interests and the legitimate rights of Chinese enterprises.”
Analysts view China’s response as a signal of strategic patience — a contrast to the more confrontational rhetoric seen in past trade disputes. While the nation’s export economy has shown resilience, Beijing has also been actively diversifying its trading partners and boosting domestic consumption to reduce dependence on any single market.
“In essence, China is playing the long game,” said Mei Zhang, an international trade scholar at Tsinghua University. “By reaffirming a consistent stance, it positions itself as a stable and responsible global economic player — especially as uncertainty clouds U.S. trade policy.”
Beijing’s comments are likely aimed not only at Washington but also at other key economic partners in Europe, Asia, and Africa. In recent years, China has expanded its influence through the Belt and Road Initiative and a series of bilateral trade agreements designed to insulate it from Western policy shifts.
As the global trade environment continues to evolve, both investors and governments will be watching closely to see whether today’s calm marks
