China's Ministry of Commerce announced on Monday that China respects all parties seeking to resolve their economic and trade disputes with the United States through consultation on an equal footing, but it will firmly oppose any party making a deal at China's expense.

Commenting on reports that the Trump administration is preparing to pressure other countries to limit trade with China in exchange for tariff exemptions from the United States, a ministry spokesperson said that China will "take firm and reciprocal countermeasures" if any country seeks to conclude such deals.

The spokesperson added, "The United States has abused tariffs on all its trading partners under the guise of so-called 'equivalence,' forcing all parties to initiate so-called 'reciprocal tariff negotiations' with it."

The ministry affirmed that China is determined and capable of protecting its rights and interests and is ready to strengthen solidarity with all parties. Bloomberg News, citing informed sources, reported that the Trump administration is preparing to pressure countries seeking tariff reductions or exemptions from the United States to limit trade with China, including financial sanctions.

Earlier this month, U.S. Trade Representative Jameson Greer said that nearly 50 countries had contacted him to discuss the hefty additional tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump.

Trump suspended the historic tariffs he had announced on April 2 on dozens of countries, except for those imposed on China, specifically targeting the world's second-largest economy with some of his largest tariffs.

snabusiness