China’s total goods imports and exports, measured in yuan, grew by 1.3 percent year-on-year in the first quarter of 2025, according to official data released Monday.
Figures from the General Administration of Customs show that exports climbed 6.9 percent to 6.13 trillion yuan (approximately 850.1 billion U.S. dollars), while imports dropped 6 percent to 4.17 trillion yuan.
In response to new tariffs imposed by the United States under the administration of Donald Trump last week, China expressed its willingness to cooperate with the European Union to counter what it described as excessive and damaging trade restrictions.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian strongly criticized Washington’s latest tariff measures, labeling them “a blatant weaponization of trade policy” that prioritizes U.S. interests over international norms.
“This is more than a challenge to China—it’s an attack on multilateralism itself,” Lin said during a regular press briefing in Beijing. “These reckless tariffs amount to economic bullying, and their consequences will be felt globally, including across European industries and among consumers.”
As the world’s second and third largest economies, China and the EU are increasingly aligning to defend the rules-based international trading system centered on the World Trade Organization (WTO). Both view the U.S. actions as a threat to global trade stability.
“China is ready to collaborate with all partners, including Europe, to uphold international trade norms and promote fairness and justice,” Lin stated. “Only through cooperation can we protect shared interests and achieve mutual prosperity.”
Together, China and the EU account for more than one-third of global GDP and around 25 percent of global trade. Their growing partnership presents new opportunities for coordinated responses to U.S. protectionism, analysts suggest.
EU officials have also voiced concern, warning that unilateral trade barriers could fragment the global economy. This shared stance has paved the way for stronger Beijing-Brussels cooperation.
Lin reaffirmed China’s willingness to take “all necessary measures” to defend its legitimate trade interests while remaining open to constructive dialogue.
“We are prepared to work with the EU and other responsible stakeholders to uphold fair international trade practices,” he said, hinting at possible joint actions through the WTO or harmonized policy responses.
The remarks reflect China’s broader strategy of isolating U.S. trade policy on the international stage while presenting itself as a reliable steward of the global economic order.
