China Condemns US Trade Restrictions as Economic Tensions Escalate

 Beijing Accuses Washington of ‘Unreasonable Suppression’ Amid Postal Service Halt and Tariffs

Tensions between China and the United States have intensified as both countries impose a new wave of tariffs and trade restrictions, further deepening their ongoing economic standoff.

In the latest development, Beijing slammed Washington on Wednesday after the United States Postal Service (USPS) announced a suspension of parcel shipments from China and Hong Kong, a move that could significantly impact major Chinese e-commerce giants Temu and Shein.

US Tightens Trade Measures Against China

The US government has been scrutinizing China’s growing dominance in the e-commerce sector, particularly the surge in low-value shipments entering the country duty-free.

🔹 USPS Suspends China and Hong Kong Parcels: No official reason was provided, but analysts believe it is tied to growing concerns over security risks, intellectual property violations, and unfair competition.

🔹 Removal of Duty-Free Exemption: The US scrapped the “de minimis” exemption, which previously allowed imports under $800 to enter the country without duties. The policy, often used by retailers like Shein and Temu, contributed to an estimated $1.36 billion in imports in 2024.

🔹 Broader Trade War Measures: Washington has been tightening regulations on Chinese products amid allegations of trade imbalances and national security risks.

China Hits Back with Retaliatory Measures

Beijing strongly condemned the US moves, calling them an attempt at economic suppression.

📌 China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Lin Jian, stated:

“The US is politicizing trade and economic issues, using them as tools to unfairly suppress Chinese companies. We will take necessary measures to protect our interests.”

📌 Beijing Announces New Tariffs on US Goods

In a direct counterattack, China imposed new levies on US energy products, vehicles, and equipment, affecting an estimated $20 billion worth of American exports—about 12% of total US imports into China.

Global Impact: EU Joins in Tightening Trade Rules

The European Commission also announced plans to impose new fees on e-commerce imports, particularly targeting low-cost Chinese goods flooding the EU market.

🌍 Implications of the EU’s move:

• Designed to combat harmful and counterfeit products

• May lead to higher prices for consumers

• Increases scrutiny on Chinese online retailers

What’s Next? Trade Talks Remain Uncertain

Former US President Donald Trump had initially hinted at potential trade negotiations with Chinese President Xi Jinping, but on Tuesday, he stated that he was in “no rush” to hold discussions.

📌 Trump’s latest tariffs affect over $450 billion worth of Chinese goods, a far greater impact than China’s $20 billion retaliatory measures.

Conclusion: Growing Uncertainty in US-China Relations

With escalating trade restrictions, tariffs, and policy changes, businesses on both sides face uncertainty and disruptions. The global economy could see further price increases and supply chain shifts as both superpowers battle for economic dominance.