China hits back at US with additional tariffs, up to 15%, on agricultural & food products

China has imposed additional tariffs of up to 15 per cent on imports of U.S. agricultural and food products, escalating a trade war between the world's top two economies.

The news come just as the U.S. said it will double tariffs on China from 10 per cent to 20 per cent, effective from Mar. 4, 2025.

Up to 15 per cent tariff

Imports of U.S. goods, including chicken, wheat, and cotton, will face an extra 15 per cent tariff, while products such as soybeans, beef, and fruits are among products facing a 10 per cent tariff, AP News, Bloomberg, and Reuters reported.

Beijing has also added 10 American companies to its unreliable entity list, mainly those engaged in defence and construction work.

This will prevent them from making new investments in China and from taking part in China-related import or export activities.

Separately, China also placed 15 U.S. companies on its export control list, prohibiting the export of dual-use items to these entities.

China major importer of U.S. farm products

China is a major importer of U.S. farm products. U.S. agricultural exports to China in fiscal year 2022 were US$36.4 billion (S$48.9 billion, with commodities like soybeans and cotton being some of the top imported products.

“The Chinese people have never believed in coercion or intimidation, nor do we succumb to bullying and hegemonic tactics,” Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said in a press conference on Tuesday (Mar. 4), as quoted by NBC News.

“Pressure, threats and coercion are not the right way to engage with China. If the U.S. attempts to exert extreme pressure on China, it is simply targeting the wrong country and miscalculating its moves.”

Trump in February said he planned to speak with China, a month on, he has yet to signal the possibility of a discussion.

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