Beijing, China, August 8: China has strongly criticised the United States for imposing additional tariffs on Indian goods, calling the move an “abuse of tariffs” and a politicisation of trade issues.
Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Cuo Jiakun, responding to media questions at a press briefing, said Beijing’s stance on tariffs was “consistent and clear.” He accused Washington of weaponising technology and trade to target countries for political purposes.
“China opposes the US politicising tech and trade issues and using them as weapons to maliciously blockade and go after China. The US should earnestly protect the legitimate and lawful rights and interests of Chinese nationals,” Cuo said.
The criticism came after US President Donald Trump signed an executive order imposing an additional 25 percent tariff on Indian goods, raising the total duty to 50 percent. The administration cited national security and foreign policy concerns, specifically pointing to India’s continued imports of Russian oil.
According to the order, such imports—whether direct or through intermediaries—pose an “unusual and extraordinary threat” to the United States. The first 25 percent tariff took effect on 7 August, while the extra 25 percent will be implemented in 21 days. Goods already in transit and certain exempt categories will not be affected.
Domestic Pushback in the US
Trump’s move has drawn criticism at home. The House Foreign Affairs Committee Democrats warned the decision could jeopardise years of work in building US–India ties.
In a post on X, Representative Gregory Meeks wrote: “Trump’s latest tariff tantrum risks years of careful work to build a stronger US–India partnership. We have deep strategic, economic, and people-to-people ties. Concerns should be addressed in a mutually respectful way consistent with our democratic values.”
Earlier, Trump made it clear there would be no trade negotiations with India until the tariff dispute is resolved. When asked by ANI in the Oval Office if talks were likely to resume despite the 50 percent duty, he replied: “No, not until we get it resolved.”
The tariff escalation is the latest flashpoint in an already strained trade relationship, with India continuing to defend its oil trade with Russia as vital for its energy security, while Washington frames the purchases as undermining its sanctions regime.