China slams ‘illegal’ US decision to impose tariffs on states engaging with Iran
US President Trump has vowed to impose a 25 percent tariff on all countries engaged in trade with the Islamic Republic
The Chinese government released a statement on 13 January slamming Washington’s decision to impose tariffs on any country engaged in trade with the Islamic Republic of Iran.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said, “China's position on the tariff issue is very clear.”
“We have always believed that there are no winners in a tariff war. China will resolutely safeguard its legitimate rights and interests,” she added.
A spokesperson for the Chinese embassy in Washington described the US decision as “exceeding legal frameworks.”
Hours earlier, US President Donald Trump announced that Washington will impose a 25 percent tariff on countries doing business with Iran.
“Effective immediately, any country doing business with the Islamic Republic of Iran will pay a Tariff of 25 percent on any and all business being done with the United States of America. This Order is final and conclusive,” Trump said.
The US imposed historically high tariffs on China in early 2025, instigating a tense trade war that was eventually paused by a one-year tactical truce reached in October 2025. This dialed back the most severe tariffs but left in place a significant baseline tariff of approximately 31 percent through 2026.
Iran's currency has plummeted to an all-time low, losing all its value to the dollar. The economic crisis, resulting mainly from years of US sanctions, has triggered widespread popular anger.
Trump’s announcement comes in the wake of violent, foreign-backed riots across Iran, which have resulted in the deaths of dozens, including civilians and scores of security forces.
Millions have taken to the streets to reject the riots and take a stance against foreign intervention.
The US president has repeatedly threatened to attack the Islamic Republic since the unrest began over two weeks ago, vowing to “rescue” anti-government protesters in Iran.
Israel’s Mossad has also publicly urged Iranians to take to the streets.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited the US recently and discussed potential new strikes on the Islamic Republic with Trump. During a press conference at the time, the US president said he would potentially support a new Israeli attack.
“Trump administration officials have had preliminary discussions about how to carry out an attack on Iran if needed to follow through on Trump’s threats, including what sites might be targeted,” anonymous US officials told the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) on 10 January.
“One option being discussed is a large-scale aerial strike on multiple Iranian military targets. There wasn’t a consensus on what course of action to take, and no military equipment or personnel had been moved in preparation for a strike,” the sources added.
Iran has vowed a harsh response to any attack.