Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian Photo: VCG

In response to an inquiry about the White House's statement claiming China now faces up to a 245 percent tariff on imports to the US as a result of its retaliatory actions, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian responded on Wednesday that "you can ask the US side for the specific tax rate figures." 

Lin said on Wednesday's press briefing that China has repeatedly stated its solemn position on the tariff issue. The tariff war was initiated by the US. China has taken necessary countermeasures to safeguard its legitimate rights and interests and international fairness and justice, which is completely reasonable and lawful. Tariff and trade wars have no winner. China does not want to fight these wars but is not scared of them.

Also in response to a question regarding White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt's remark that "the ball is in China's court: China needs to make a deal with us, we don't have to make a deal with them," which she claimed that US President Donald Trump had given her that statement directly to use, Lin reiterated that it is the US that initiated the tariff war, and that China has taken the necessary countermeasures to safeguard its own legitimate rights and interests and international fairness and justice, which are completely reasonable and lawful.  

Lin added that China's position has always been very clear. Tariff and trade wars have no winner. China does not want to fight these wars but is not scared of them. If the US side really wants to solve the problem through dialogue and negotiation, it should give up using extreme pressure, stop threatening and blackmailing, and engage in dialogue with the Chinese side on the basis of equality, respect and mutual benefit.

Asked to confirm whether BRICS trade and economic ministers reportedly might hold a special meeting to discuss US tariff hikes and comment on the significance of BRICS in addressing tariff issues, Lin stated that BRICS, as an important platform for cooperation among emerging markets and developing countries, upholds openness, inclusiveness, and win-win cooperation, aiming for common development and shared prosperity.

Lin added that BRICS countries oppose unilateralism, protectionism, and economic bullying, and will work together to uphold the multilateral trading system with the WTO at its core, as well as global economic stability. 

"As for the specific meeting you mentioned, I would refer you to the competent authorities," the spokesperson said. 

Global Times