China has had to respond in a strong manner as the United States is being unpredictable and challenging, and initiated the trade war, spokesman for the Chinese Ministry of Commerce Gao Feng said on Thursday.

The previous trade negotiations with the US were positive and constructive, they served the interests of the peoples from both sides, accorded with the established rhythm of China's reform and opening up, as well as the rules of WTO, Gao said, however, the US constantly changes its attitude and waged the trade war, US unilateralism will ultimately damage the interests of its own workers and farmers.

The US is used to negotiating with a stick in its hands, but that's not going to work with China, this irrational act is not beneficial to fixing problems, Gao said. 

The US has distorted history and reality to accuse China of stealing intellectual property rights and forcing technology transfer, Gao noted, adding that during China’s reform and opening up, many foreign companies proceeded from their own interests and developed good technological cooperation with Chinese companies, which is a typical form of market behavior bound by contracts, and they have received well-known and lucrative returns.

If the US implements the tariffs list and leads to unfair trade, China will make comprehensive use of various measures including quantitative tools and quality tools to defend the interests of its people, Gao stressed.