China has warned other countries not to give in to U.S. pressure in trade talks. The warning came after reports that Washington is pushing countries to limit trade with China in exchange for tariff exemptions.

A Chinese Commerce Ministry spokesperson responded to the reports. The official said, “Appeasement cannot bring peace, and compromise cannot earn one respect.” They added, “China firmly opposes any party reaching a deal at the expense of China’s interests. If this happens, China will never accept it and will resolutely take countermeasures.”

U.S. Begins Trade Talks with Allies

The Trump administration has started trade talks with several partners. Japan sent a delegation to Washington last week. South Korea plans to start its talks soon.

Since January, President Donald Trump has imposed high tariffs on Chinese goods. Other countries also faced new import taxes.

China Repeats Its Stand

China’s message reflects a recent editorial in the state-run China Daily. The article warned the European Union not to “appease” the U.S. by cutting deals that harm China.

Reports suggest the U.S. wants countries to block Chinese trade to get tariff relief. The BBC contacted the U.S. Treasury and Trade Representative for a response, but they have not replied.

Countries Caught in the Middle

Trump said more than 70 countries have approached the U.S. for talks since the tariffs began.

Jesper Koll from Monex Group explained Japan’s position. He said, “If you put the numbers on it, about 20% of Japan’s profitability comes from the United States, about 15% comes from the People’s Republic of China.” He added, “Certainly, Japan doesn’t want to [have to] choose between America and the People’s Republic of China.”

Japan’s trade negotiator Ryosei Akazawa already met Trump in Washington. South Korea’s acting president, Han Duck-soo, confirmed talks will begin this week.

India Also Faces Pressure

U.S. Vice President JD Vance is visiting India this week. He will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi. India faces a 26% tariff if it does not reach a trade deal with the U.S.

Trump Defends His Tariff Policy

Trump says his import taxes will boost U.S. manufacturing. He believes they will make people buy American-made goods and bring in more tax money. He also expects new investments in the U.S.

But critics disagree. They say moving factories back to the U.S. is hard. It could take years. In the meantime, the economy may suffer.

Trump Changes Course Under Pressure

Trump has already reversed some tariff decisions. Earlier this month, he paused new tariffs for 90 days for most countries—except China. He acted after protests from politicians and market experts.

Right now, some Chinese goods face U.S. tariffs as high as 145%. When combined with earlier levies, the total could reach 245%. Other countries face a 10% blanket tariff until July.

China Strikes Back

China has hit U.S. products with up to 125% in taxes. It has also vowed to “fight to the end.” This trade war between the world’s two biggest economies has shaken global markets.