China on Monday issued a stern warning to the U.S. administration, accusing it of exerting pressure on foreign countries to limit their trade with Beijing in exchange for tariff exemptions, calling the move a form of unacceptable economic blackmail.

In a statement released by the Ministry of Commerce, China criticized Washington’s use of so-called “reciprocal” tariffs, alleging that the U.S. is forcing partners into unfair negotiations by applying political and economic pressure.

The ministry stated:
“Trying to obtain exemptions by sacrificing the interests of others for selfish gains is like bargaining with a tiger over its skin — a move destined to fail for both sides.”

The warning comes amid escalating tensions after U.S. President Donald Trump announced a new wave of reciprocal tariffs, including a 145% increase on Chinese imports. Beijing retaliated with a 125% tariff hike on U.S. goods.

China reiterated that it will not accept any agreement that compromises its national interests, vowing to take necessary measures to defend its economic sovereignty. The statement also urged countries worldwide to unite against U.S. trade coercion and to uphold a global trade system based on fairness and established rules.