China issues white paper, calls for dialogue amid escalating trade tensions with US

 In a move aimed at clarifying its stance amid escalating trade tensions, China on Wednesday unveiled a white paper titled “China's Position on Some Issues Concerning China-U.S Economic and Trade Relations”.

The document, released by the State Council Information Office, highlights Beijing’s concerns over Washington’s growing protectionist policies and calls for a return to dialogue and cooperation.

The white paper underscores the adverse impact of rising unilateralism and economic coercion from the United States, stating that such actions have significantly disrupted the normal trajectory of China-U.S. trade relations.

Since the trade dispute erupted in 2018, the U.S. has imposed tariffs on over $500 billion worth of Chinese goods. The latest wave of tariff hikes includes those levied under the guise of addressing the fentanyl crisis, so-called “reciprocal tariffs,” and a hefty 50% increase on existing duties—moves which China has denounced as unjust and harmful.

“These actions contradict the principles of market economy and multilateralism,” the white paper asserts, warning that such measures will have far-reaching consequences for the broader bilateral economic landscape.

Despite these pressures, the document emphasizes that China has responded with “forceful countermeasures” to safeguard its core national interests. At the same time, Beijing reiterated its commitment to resolving differences through constructive engagement, noting that several rounds of dialogue with the U.S. have already taken place.

Describing the economic relationship between the two countries as “mutually beneficial and win-win,” the paper acknowledges that differences are natural given their distinct development stages and economic systems. However, it insists that mutual respect and open dialogue remain the best path forward.