Chinese Ambassador to India, Xu Feihong, delivered a pointed criticism of US President Donald Trump for raising tariffs on multiple countries, including India. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Xu accused Trump of coercion through trade measures, writing, “Give the bully an inch, he will take a mile.”
https://twitter.com/China_Amb_India/status/1953361350035415111
Wang Yi Condemns Tariff Tactics
Xu echoed the words of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who criticised the US move during a phone call with Celso Amorim, chief adviser to Brazil’s president. Wang stated, “Using tariffs as a weapon to suppress other countries violates the UN Charter, undermines WTO rules, and is both unpopular and unsustainable.”
Geopolitical Rivalries in Play
Historically, US administrations have maintained close ties with India to counterbalance China’s influence. Despite this, India and China remain strategic rivals competing for dominance in South Asia.
Possible Modi Visit to China
Amid the tariff tensions, speculation is growing that Prime Minister Narendra Modi could visit China in late August—his first trip there since 2018. However, no official confirmation has been given. Modi last met Chinese President Xi Jinping in October 2024 in Russia.
Impact on Indian Exports
Bloomberg reports that the new tariffs will take effect in 21 days, targeting labour-intensive Indian exports such as textiles, footwear, and gems and jewellery. The move could significantly disrupt trade and force India to explore alternative markets.
India’s Sharp Response
New Delhi has condemned Trump’s decision, calling it “unfair, unjustified”. Officials accused the US president of singling out India, despite other nations also importing oil from Russia.