China Calls for UN Security Council Meeting to Condemn US Tariff Policies

On April 23, 2025, China is set to convene an informal United Nations Security Council meeting to condemn the United States' unilateral trade practices, particularly the imposition of tariffs. This meeting underscores escalating tensions between the world's two largest economies and highlights concerns over the broader impact of protectionism on global stability.

The meeting, open to all 193 U.N. member states, aims to address the repercussions of unilateralism and protectionism on international relations. China's concept note criticizes the U.S. for "weaponizing tariffs as a tool of extreme pressure," alleging violations of international trade rules and destabilization of the global economy.

This development follows a series of escalating trade measures between the two nations. On February 1, 2025, President Donald Trump signed Executive Order 14195, establishing a new 10% baseline tariff on all Chinese imports, citing concerns over China's alleged export of fentanyl into the U.S. China retaliated on February 10 with tariffs of 15% on coal and liquefied natural gas and 10% on crude oil and agricultural machinery. Subsequent months saw further escalations, with the U.S. increasing tariffs by an additional 34% on April 2, leading to a cumulative minimum tariff of 54% on all Chinese imports. China responded with equivalent measures, imposing a 34% tariff on all U.S. imports effective April 10.

The economic repercussions of these escalating tariffs have been significant. Goldman Sachs forecasts that China's economy will grow at 4.5% in 2025, its slowest pace since 2020, as high U.S. tariffs could disrupt China's export-driven economy. The Economist Intelligence Unit estimates that a 20-percentage-point increase in the effective tariff rate on Chinese exports to the U.S. could reduce China's GDP by about 0.6 percentage points from 2025 to 2027.

Specific industries have also felt the impact. A Boeing 737 MAX jet originally destined for Xiamen Airlines in China was returned to Boeing's production facility in Seattle due to escalating trade tensions. The aircraft, valued at nearly $55 million, would incur significant duty costs under the current tariff regime, making the delivery financially unfeasible.

Chinese officials have been vocal in their opposition to U.S. trade policies. Chinese Ambassador to the U.S., Xie Feng, has called for peaceful coexistence and mutual success between China and the United States amid the escalating trade war. Speaking in Washington, Xie emphasized the destructive impact of tariffs on the global economy, comparing the current situation to the 1930 U.S. tariffs that contributed to the Great Depression. Despite appealing for cooperation, Xie warned that China is prepared to retaliate against any country imposing tariffs.

The trade tensions have broader societal implications. Due to new tariffs announced by President Donald Trump, baby products such as strollers, car seats, and nursery furniture are becoming more expensive and harder to find. Many prospective parents are rushing to purchase these items before prices increase substantially. Since 90% of essential baby products are manufactured in Asia, particularly China, U.S. companies and consumers are facing significant impacts.

As China prepares to address the U.N. Security Council, the international community watches closely. The outcome of this meeting could influence future diplomatic and economic strategies, potentially reshaping global trade dynamics and international relations.