The news comes amid reports of the US administration’s plan to impose 25 percent tariffs on $200 billion in imported Chinese goods, according to US-based media.

If the United States takes further steps to hinder trade, Beijing will retaliate, Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang has told a daily news briefing.

“China’s position remains clear and unchanged: blackmail and US pressure against the PRC will never work,” the diplomat said, answering the question on the issue.

According to Geng Shuang, “if the US takes action to further escalate the situation, China will undoubtedly take the necessary countermeasures to protect its legitimate rights and interests.”

Source: AFP