China’s Foreign Ministry has issued a strong criticism of US President Donald Trump’s trade policies through a poignant social media video, urging the global community to resist what it describes as American “bullying.” In the video, China warns that “bowing to a bully is like drinking poison to quench thirst,” asserting that compromise will not lead to leniency but rather provoke further intimidation.
The narrative offers a historical perspective on what China sees as US economic aggression, citing instances where companies like Toshiba and Alstom faced dire consequences, including financial crises and bankruptcies, whilst suggesting that Japan has suffered from prolonged economic stagnation due to similar pressures. Conversely, China positions itself as a bastion of free trade, encouraging other nations to invest and partner.
The video contains an emphatic message of resilience, stating, “China will stand firm, no matter how hard the wind blows,” and calls for a united front to challenge US hegemony. Although it does not explicitly mention the 145% tariffs imposed by the Trump administration on Chinese imports, it reflects China’s determination to withstand these pressures and promotes a collective stand against American dominance.
In the backdrop of escalating trade tensions, Trump has indicated that he anticipates lowering tariffs on Chinese products, while acknowledging the need for China to present a strong proposal. However, China has denied claims of being engaged in active trade negotiations. Meanwhile, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has been in talks with 17 other nations concerning trade arrangements amid a temporary suspension of high tariffs imposed on several countries.
The video also warns against siding with the US, emphasising that asserting one’s position is essential for maintaining the prospect of collaborative efforts. “Standing up for ourselves keeps the possibility of cooperation alive,” it states, reinforcing China’s stance against bullying and injustice on the global stage.
China’s portrayal of the US as a “paper tiger” highlights its view that American trade represents a small fraction of global commerce, asserting that the US does not embody the collective interests of the world. The video concludes with a call for solidarity among nations to counterbalance American unpredictability in trade.
Through this bold messaging, China seeks to frame its position as both unyielding in the face of pressure and collaborative in fostering more equilibrium in international trade relations.