China’s Commerce Minister Wang Wentao has called for the restoration of “healthy and sustainable” commercial relations with the United States, urging Washington to act responsibly as a global power. Speaking at a press conference, Wang emphasized China’s commitment to global trade, noting the resilience of its export sector despite rising external pressures.
Wang stressed that China’s next five-year plan will focus on expanding both imports and exports, reinforcing the country’s role in global supply chains. He also underlined that China’s policy support for exports has defied the global trend, helping stabilize trade momentum.
Reflecting on the turbulent U.S.-China trade relationship, Wang said both countries have learned they are economically interdependent. “A forced decoupling is not realistic,” he noted, adding that key trade flows remain difficult to replace in the short term.
Despite recent trade tensions, Wang asserted that China and the U.S. remain vital partners. He encouraged both sides to resolve issues through “equal dialogue and consultations,” warning that “there are no winners in a trade war.” He reiterated that while China does not seek conflict, it will defend its interests.
The current average U.S. tariff on Chinese goods stands at a “still high” 53.6%, following a series of hikes introduced by President Donald Trump earlier this year. Although a truce was reached in May, Washington has given Beijing until August 12 to finalize a deal and avoid reinstatement of additional import curbs.
Wang concluded by stating that “major countries should act like major countries,” emphasizing China’s firm stance on protecting its national interests and opposing any unilateral trade aggression.