By China Warns US: Ready for Any Type of War Amid Escalating Trade Tensions
China has issued a strong warning to the United States, stating that it is prepared to fight “any type” of war as tensions over trade tariffs continue to escalate.
Growing Trade War Between China and the US
The world’s two largest economies are moving closer to an all-out trade war after former US President Donald Trump imposed additional tariffs on all Chinese goods. In response, China retaliated by slapping 10-15% tariffs on US agricultural products.
“If war is what the US wants, be it a tariff war, a trade war, or any other type of war, we’re ready to fight till the end,” stated China’s embassy on social media platform X, quoting a government statement released on Tuesday.
China’s Strongest Response Yet
This is one of China’s most aggressive statements since Trump’s presidency. The warning comes as China’s top political leaders gather in Beijing for the annual National People’s Congress (NPC), an event that shapes the country’s policies for the year ahead.
China’s Economic Strategy Amid Tensions
Despite the trade war, China’s leadership is confident about economic growth. Premier Li Qiang, speaking at the NPC on Wednesday, announced that the country would again increase its defence spending by 7.2% this year. He noted that the world is witnessing rapid changes, adding, “Changes unseen in a century are unfolding across the world at a faster pace.”
China is working to maintain a stable image in contrast to the United States, which it accuses of being involved in conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine.
Global Alliances and Strategic Moves
China may also see an opportunity to strengthen its relationships with other nations affected by US trade policies. Trump’s trade actions have impacted not just China but also traditional US allies like Canada and Mexico. Beijing appears cautious about escalating tensions further, as it seeks to attract more global partners and foreign investment.
Military Preparedness vs. Readiness for War
China has historically emphasized military readiness. In October, President Xi Jinping called on troops to strengthen their combat preparedness as China conducted military drills near Taiwan, a self-governing island. However, there is a distinction between military drills and actively preparing for war.
As tensions rise, the world watches closely to see whether this trade conflict will escalate into a broader geopolitical confrontation.
