US 'reciprocal tariffs' deprive Global South countries of right to development: China

IANS April 7, 2025 186 views

The United States' unilateral tariff policies are causing significant economic harm to developing countries, according to China's Foreign Ministry. By imposing differentiated tax rates, the US is undermining international trade principles and hindering economic growth for less developed nations. These actions prioritize American interests over global economic cooperation and stability. China strongly advocates for multilateralism and mutual benefit in international economic relations.

"Development is a universal right of all countries, not the privilege of a few" - Lin Jian, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson
Beijing, April 7: The unilateral imposition of "reciprocal tariffs" by the United States effectively deprives countries, particularly those in the Global South, of their right to development, and is certain to face widespread opposition from the international community, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said on Monday.

Key Points

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- US tariffs impact over 180 countries, especially least developed economies

Recently, the United States has imposed tariffs on all its trading partners, affecting over 180 countries and regions worldwide, including some economies classified as the least developed countries by the United Nations. Analysts suggest that these high tariffs will deliver an unprecedented and severe impact on poor nations with simple economic structures and high dependency on exports.

In response to a related query, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said at a daily news briefing that the United States, under the guise of "reciprocity," acted in a manner that prioritizes its own interests at the expense of other nations' legitimate benefits. This approach places "America First" above international rules, exemplifying unilateralism, protectionism, and economic bullying.

Lin added that the Chinese government has issued its position on opposing US abuse of tariffs, making clear its solemn attitude.

Data analysis from the World Trade Organization indicates that, amid economic disparities and unequal power dynamics, US tariff policies will exacerbate the wealth gap among nations, with less developed countries facing particularly severe repercussions, Xinhua news agency reported. This trend poses a significant threat to the efforts intended to achieve the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, Lin said.

The United States' imposition of differentiated tax rates violates the World Trade Organization's principle of non-discrimination, severely undermining the normal international economic and trade order, as well as the security and stability of global industrial and supply chains, Lin said, adding that this action significantly damages the multilateral trading system, poses a severe threat to the global economic recovery process, and is bound to meet widespread opposition from the international community.

Openness and cooperation are a historical trend, and mutual benefit and win-win outcomes are the aspirations of people. Development is a universal right of all countries, not the privilege of a few, said Lin.

He emphasised that all countries should uphold the principle of extensive consultation, joint contribution and shared benefits, adhere to true multilateralism, jointly oppose all forms of unilateralism and protectionism, and uphold the international system with the United Nations at its core and the multilateral trading system with the World Trade Organization at its core.

Reader Comments

M
Maria K.
This is exactly why we need stronger international cooperation. The US can't keep acting like the world's playground bully. Developing nations deserve fair trade opportunities too! 🌍
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James T.
While I understand China's position, I think we need more context about why the US implemented these tariffs in the first place. There's always two sides to every trade dispute.
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Aisha B.
As someone from a developing country, this hits close to home. These tariffs could destroy small businesses in my community that rely on exports. When will powerful nations learn? 😔
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Robert L.
Interesting how China is positioning itself as the defender of developing nations. Not saying they're wrong here, but let's not forget China's own trade practices.
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Sophie M.
The WTO needs to step up here. What's the point of having international trade rules if powerful countries can just ignore them when it suits their interests?
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Thomas W.
Respectful criticism: While the article makes good points about developing nations, it reads very one-sided. Would be helpful to include some US perspective or justification for their tariff policies.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Tags:
US Trade Policy China Foreign Ministry Global South Tariffs World Trade Organization Economic Development
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