Chinese Ambassador to India, Xu Feihong, lashed out at the United States for its harsh tariff regime on Indian products. He compared Washington’s behavior to that of a “schoolyard bully.” At an event in the Indian capital, Xu stated that the US has long benefited from free trade but is now using tariffs as a “bargaining chip.”
Oddly enough, the ambassador’s positive remarks come on heels of the US imposing tariffs of up to 50% on a range of Indian products. Xu referred to this new requirement as a bid for “exorbitant prices” from other countries. It also conveyed Beijing’s strong opposition to these tariffs and the need for increased cooperation between India and China.
Xu asserted, “Silence only emboldens the bully,” calling on countries to speak out and defend against these intimidation tactics. He underscored the importance of unity between India and China, asserting that their collaboration would not only benefit both countries but the world at large.
Xu had characterized China and India as the “double engines” of economic growth in Asia. He announced that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to China scheduled later this month would add “new impetus” to the bilateral ties. These connections have floundered ever since the Galwan, Ladakh, clashes in 2020.
The Chinese ambassador invited Indian enterprises to invest more in China, highlighting Beijing’s desire for a “fair, just and non-discriminatory business environment” for Chinese businesses operating in India. He added that developing a spirit of cooperation would be in both sides’ interests and a critical factor for long-term regional peace and stability.
On July 6, the US administration (under ex-President Trump) retaliated against India by adding a 25% penalty. They placed on their own extra tariffs on India’s purchases of oil and weapons from Russia. The new, higher tariff rates will take effect on August 27. This latest action does little to ease fears of increasing trade hostilities between the two countries.
“Partners rather than adversaries or threats.” – Wang Yi