• Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi condemned US tariffs as arbitrary and two-faced.
• Wang highlighted China's efforts in addressing fentanyl trafficking and criticized US accusations.
• Tariffs on Chinese imports have risen to 20%, heightening tensions in US-China relations.
• China maintains that fentanyl precursor chemicals are primarily trafficked through Mexico, not directly from China.
• Wang suggests that the US's actions risk destabilizing international relations and order.

In a recent press conference, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi firmly addressed the recent tariffs imposed by the Trump administration, referring to them as “arbitrary” and indicative of a “two-faced” foreign policy. This statement came in response to President Trump’s claim of insufficient action taken by China to curb the flow of fentanyl and its precursors into the United States. Wang emphasized that such tariffs strain bilateral relations, stating, “No country can fantasize that it can suppress China and maintain a good relationship with China at the same time” (Source).

President Trump recently escalated tariffs on various Chinese goods, citing fentanyl trafficking as justification. Wang countered that the drugs largely originate from Mexico, which has developed an illicit manufacturing structure for fentanyl, sourced primarily from Chinese chemical precursors. He noted, “The U.S. should not return good with evil or impose arbitrary tariffs” (Source).

Wang’s remarks signal Beijing’s intent to defend its interests against perceived US aggression while simultaneously keeping the door open for dialogue and cooperation. The latest US tariffs, which have reached 20% on all Chinese imports, have created a retaliatory cycle, with China imposing its additional tariffs on select US goods including agricultural products (Source).

Despite accusations aimed at China, experts argue that significant quantities of fentanyl enter the U.S. from Mexico, not directly due to failures on China's part. Recent reports indicate that while fentanyl continues to pose a serious challenge, more of the problematic shipments come through Mexico, which has been backed by US border security strategies, often misrepresenting its sources (Source).

Wang Yi reiterated that cooperation, rather than hostility, is essential for addressing complex issues like drug trafficking and international security. His observations about US policies included warnings that a “law of the jungle” mentality could emerge if powerful nations dictate terms without regard for weaker countries (Source).

This situation represents a critical juncture in US-China relations, highlighting where economic strategies may further exacerbate existing tensions rather than resolve underlying issues related to trade and international cooperation Source.