China Warns of Damage to Trade Ties After U.S. Tariff Moves

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China's trade representative Li Chenggang warned that the U.S. President Donald Trump's latest tariff moves could harm the countries' trade relationship, following high-level talks in Paris. Li said China expressed serious concern about trade investigations into manufacturing in foreign countries that the Trump administration launched after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down its earlier tariffs. Both sides agreed to make efforts to keep the tariffs stable, but Li said there was uncertainty as the U.S. adjusts its measures.

Why it matters

The U.S.-China trade relationship has been a major source of tension, with both sides imposing tariffs that have disrupted global supply chains. This latest warning from China underscores the fragility of the trade ties between the world's two largest economies, even as they try to negotiate a long-term solution.

The details

Li Chenggang, China's international trade representative, said the Chinese side had expressed serious concern about the trade investigations launched by the Trump administration after the Supreme Court struck down earlier tariffs. He said China is worried the results of such investigations 'may interfere with or damage the hard-won and stable China-U.S. economic and trade relations.' The two sides discussed the possible extension of tariffs and non-tariff measures, with China expressing concern over likely uncertainty as the U.S. adjusts its approach.

• The high-level talks in Paris took place on March 17, 2026.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Trump is planning a trip to China in about two weeks, though the president has warned that it could be delayed. The two sides agreed to make efforts to keep the tariffs stable as they work to prepare for the potential Trump-Xi meeting.