Xi Condemns Bullying After US-China Reach Tariff Truce

Chinese President Xi Jinping has strongly criticized what he described as "bullying" and "hegemonism," just one day after the United States and China agreed to a temporary halt in their ongoing tariff dispute. His remarks came during a high-level summit in Beijing with officials from Latin America and the Caribbean, including the presidents of Brazil, Colombia, and Chile. Xi emphasized the importance of global cooperation amid growing geopolitical tensions and rapid global changes.

Tariff War Pause and Its Impacts

The recent agreement between the United States and China marks a significant de-escalation in the long-standing trade war that had led both sides to impose heavy tariffs. For over a month, U.S. tariffs on Chinese imports had climbed to 145%, while China responded with tariffs of 125% on American goods. Under the new agreement, these rates will be significantly reduced for a 90-day period — U.S. tariffs dropping to 30%, and China's tariffs decreasing to 10%.

However, certain tariffs remain untouched. The U.S.'s 20% tariffs on China related to fentanyl, introduced in February and March, will continue. China, in turn, will maintain its corresponding countermeasures. Additionally, China has agreed to suspend or eliminate non-tariff countermeasures it had implemented since April 2.

While the U.S. administration has labeled this agreement a win, citing strategic deal-making, Chinese officials and media view it as a major success for Beijing. Commentators say China's firm retaliation and diplomatic resistance played a key role in bringing the U.S. to the negotiating table.

Strengthening Ties with Latin America

Despite the trade pause, Xi Jinping continued to promote China's global agenda by reaching out to Latin American and Caribbean nations. Speaking at the China-CELAC Forum — a platform established in 2014 to deepen cooperation between China and CELAC (Community of Latin American and Caribbean States) — Xi reaffirmed China's commitment to these regions.

He described both China and CELAC countries as part of the Global South, united by a shared desire for independence, development, and fairness. Xi pledged to provide 66 billion yuan (about $9.2 billion) in credit lines to support the region's growth. These funds will be offered in yuan, reflecting China's broader strategy to promote its currency internationally.

Trade between China and Latin America surpassed $500 billion last year, with China being Brazil's top buyer of soybeans — purchasing more than 73% of the country's total exports of the crop.

Xi concluded by emphasizing the need for unity and cooperation in the face of growing protectionism and unilateral actions. He stated that China is ready to work closely with its Latin American and Caribbean partners to build a more just and inclusive global order.