Ministry of Commerce: China is willing to conduct candid discussions with the U.S. during the upcoming 6th round of China-U.S. economic and trade consultations.

Ministry of Commerce Spokesperson Answers Journalists’ Questions on Recent U.S. Tariff Adjustments

Question: On February 24, 2026, early morning Eastern Time, U.S. Customs, based on relevant U.S. announcements, stopped collecting tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, and imposed import surcharges on all trading partners according to Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974. What is China’s comment on this? Will China take any corresponding measures?

Answer: We have taken note of the situation. In early February and April 2025, the U.S. imposed a 10% so-called fentanyl tariff and a 34% reciprocal tariff on Chinese goods under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. Of these, 24% reciprocal tariffs have been suspended, and the actual tariffs imposed on China are 20%. According to the ruling of the U.S. Supreme Court in the tariff litigation case and relevant administrative orders and announcements by the U.S. government, the U.S. has ceased collecting the above tariffs, but at the same time, has imposed a 10% import surcharge under Section 122. China also notes that the U.S. has stated on multiple occasions that it will use investigations under Sections 301 and 232 to impose tariffs. China is closely monitoring and will conduct a comprehensive assessment of the U.S. measures. Future actions will be decided and adjusted as appropriate based on the situation, including countermeasures against the original fentanyl tariffs and reciprocal tariffs. China reserves the right to take all necessary measures to firmly defend its legitimate rights and interests.

China has always opposed all forms of unilateral tariff measures and urges the U.S. to cancel and cease imposing such unilateral tariffs. Practice has repeatedly proven that mutual benefit results from cooperation, while confrontation harms both sides. China is willing to engage in frank discussions with the U.S. during the upcoming 6th China-U.S. Economic and Trade Consultations. We hope the U.S. and China will work together, uphold the consensus reached by the two heads of state at the Busan summit and during the February 4 call, and resolve differences based on mutual respect and equal consultation, properly manage disagreements, and maintain the healthy, stable, and sustainable development of China-U.S. economic and trade relations. (Ministry of Commerce)