The trade tensions between the United States and China have escalated as Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao called on Washington to lift sanctions on Chinese firms. This plea comes in the wake of recent US tariff hikes on Chinese products such as electric vehicles and EV batteries. The US is also planning to ban the sale of connected vehicles with Chinese and Russian technology due to national security concerns.
During a call with US Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo, Wang expressed concerns about US semiconductor policies and restrictions on China’s network-connected cars. However, Raimondo emphasized that US national security is non-negotiable while leaving room for healthy trade and investment. Both countries have agreed to maintain open communication channels in the upcoming months.
Bringing Trade Relations Back on Track
As tensions continue amid trade disputes, both Democrats and Republicans in the US have taken a firm stance against China. President Joe Biden has upheld tariffs imposed by his predecessor, Donald Trump, affecting billions of dollars in Chinese goods. The US justifies these measures as necessary to limit Chinese access to advanced technology for military purposes.