China has issued a stark warning to the United States, declaring that it is prepared for “any type of war” as tensions escalate over President Donald Trump’s aggressive trade policies.
The two economic superpowers are inching closer to an all-out trade war after Trump imposed sweeping tariffs on all Chinese imports. In retaliation, China announced 10-15% tariffs on U.S. agricultural products.
“If war is what the U.S. wants, be it a tariff war, a trade war, or any other type of war, we’re ready to fight till the end,” China’s embassy posted on X, quoting a government statement released on Tuesday. The strong rhetoric comes as China’s leaders convene in Beijing for the annual National People’s Congress, where the country is grappling with economic uncertainty in the face of Trump’s tariffs.
China’s Premier Li Qiang reaffirmed Beijing’s commitment to economic resilience, announcing a 7.2% increase in defense spending and warning that “changes unseen in a century” were unfolding at an accelerated pace. This increase mirrors last year’s defense budget hike, signaling China’s determination to maintain military preparedness amid mounting geopolitical tensions.
Beijing has sought to position itself as a stable global power, contrasting its approach with what it describes as an increasingly aggressive and war-torn U.S. under Trump. Chinese officials are also eyeing potential alliances with other nations hit by Trump’s tariffs, including Canada and Mexico, while trying to maintain a measured tone to avoid alienating future partners.
