China has issued a stark warning to the United States, asserting its readiness to engage in “any type” of conflict as retaliation escalates amidst the ongoing trade war instigated by former President Donald Trump. The situation intensified following Trump’s decision to raise tariffs on all Chinese imports to 20%. In response, China retaliated by imposing tariffs of up to 15% on selected American products, expanding export controls on numerous US firms, and filing a lawsuit with the World Trade Organisation.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lian Jian stated, “If war is what the US wants—be it a tariff war, a trade war, or any other form of conflict—we’re prepared to fight until the end.” He criticised the US approach, labelling its methods of “pressure, coercion, and threats” as misguided. Lian also dismissed claims from the Trump administration that China is responsible for the opioid crisis in the US, calling it a “flimsy excuse” to justify increased tariffs. He emphasised that it is the US itself that bears responsibility for its fentanyl crisis, noting that China has made significant efforts to assist the US in addressing the issue.
This aggressive rhetoric from the Chinese government coincided with the gathering of top officials, including President Xi Jinping, at the National People’s Congress in Beijing, an event known for formalising pre-determined decisions. During this session, it was announced that China’s military budget will increase by 7.2% this year as part of its initiative to modernise and expand its military capabilities. China’s defence spending is now the second highest globally, trailing only the US, and it boasts the largest navy in the world.
The mounting tensions with the US, alongside disputes with Taiwan, Japan, and other nations over territorial claims in the South China Sea, are viewed as key factors driving China’s significant investments in advanced military technology. These developments include the acquisition of stealth fighter jets, a fleet of aircraft carriers, and an expansion of its nuclear arsenal.