Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian

There are no winners in either a trade or tariff war, and the interests of the people of all countries will be harmed, and China firmly opposes the US' unilateral actions to impose additional tariffs, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said at a regular press conference on Wednesday.

He made the remarks in response to reports that US President Donald Trump on Tuesday signed a new order directing US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick to initiate a national security investigation into potential new tariffs on copper imports under Section 232. Reuters reported that White House trade advisor Peter Navarro accused China of relying on state subsidies and overproduction to dominate global copper production.

Lin said China and the US should resolve their concerns through dialogue and consultation in an equal and mutually respectful manner. China will continue to take necessary measures to firmly safeguard its legitimate rights and interests.