China opposes U.S. demand for tariffs on China over Russian oil purchase

China firmly opposes a U.S. demand that Group of Seven (G7) and North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) countries impose tariffs of 50 to 100 percent on China because of the country's purchase of Russian oil, said a spokesperson for the Ministry of Commerce on Monday.

 In response to a media query, the spokesperson stated that China has always opposed trade and economic restrictions against China under the pretext of so-called "Russia-related" issues.

The U.S. attempt to coerce relevant parties into enforcing "secondary tariffs" on China over its purchase of Russian oil is a typical example of unilateral bullying and economic coercion, the spokesperson said. 

Such a move seriously violates the consensus reached during a phone call between the two heads of state and could seriously impact global trade and disrupt the stability of industrial and supply chains, the spokesperson added.

China firmly opposes this and will take all necessary measures to protect its legitimate rights and interests if any party harms China's interests, the spokesperson said. 

The spokesperson expressed hope that the United States will act cautiously, collaborate with China in the same direction, and properly resolve trade differences through equal dialogue and consultation.

The spokesperson also called on relevant parties to uphold principles and collaborate with China to protect the international trade system and ensure the stability of global industrial and supply chains.