"China has repeatedly clarified its strict position on the tariff issue," Lin said on Wednesday. "This tariff war was initiated by the United States, and China has taken necessary countermeasures to safeguard its legitimate rights and interests and international fairness and justice, which is completely reasonable and legal."

The trade conflict between the United States and China intensifies as President Donald Trump escalates tariffs on Chinese imports to 245%. This move, aimed at addressing perceived disrespect from China,

Beijing announced a new round of 50 percent tariffs in response to President Trump’s latest levies as the trade conflict between the superpowers escalates.