China slams US tariff policy, vows support for BD in trade

Diplomatic Correspondent :

Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh, Yao Wen, has strongly criticised the United States’ imposition of reciprocal tariffs on Bangladeshi goods, calling the move “unreasonable, unethical, and a textbook example of trade bullying.” He reaffirmed China’s support for Bangladesh in safeguarding its legitimate economic interests.

Speaking at a DCAB Talk organised by the Diplomatic Correspondents Association, Bangladesh (DCAB) at the Jatiya Press Club, the Ambassador condemned Washington’s decision to impose a 35 per cent tariff on Bangladeshi exports, despite the country’s status as a Least Developed Country (LDC).

“This is neither fair nor ethical,” Yao said, warning that such punitive measures could hinder Bangladesh’s economic growth and compromise its sovereignty. He argued that the so-called “reciprocal tariffs” contravene World Trade Organization (WTO) norms, disrupt global supply chains, and impede global economic recovery.

He assured that China would stand firmly beside Bangladesh during this period, supporting its efforts to resolve trade disputes through dialogue while defending its economic autonomy.

“China has granted zero-tariff treatment to 100 per cent of taxable Bangladeshi items until the end of 2028,” he said. “In the first quarter of this year alone, Chinese investment in Bangladesh increased by 3.7 times.”

Ambassador Yao noted that since last August, nearly 20 Chinese companies have signed investment deals with Bangladeshi partners, with commitments exceeding $400 million, making China the largest source of foreign direct investment (FDI) since the current interim government assumed office.

On Bangladesh’s internal political affairs, Ambassador Yao reiterated China’s principled position of non-interference, saying, “We support the interim government’s efforts to ensure a smooth and successful general election.”

He added, “It is entirely up to the government and people of Bangladesh to determine the timing and structure of their elections. As a foreign diplomat, I am not in a position to comment on the formation of a national government.”

Yao also expressed appreciation for Bangladesh’s unwavering commitment to the One China Policy, describing China as a “trustworthy friend, neighbour, and partner” of Bangladesh.

Addressing questions regarding recent engagements with leaders of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Jamaat-e-Islami, Ambassador Yao noted a resumption of party-level contact after more than a decade.
“For the past ten years, our interaction with BNP and Jamaat had been hindered or paused.

This recent exchange marks a renewal of our traditional ties, and both sides have expressed strong interest in strengthening relations,” he said.

Turning to regional issues, Ambassador Yao underscored China’s belief in dialogue over sanctions regarding Myanmar. He stated that decades of sanctions have failed to resolve Myanmar’s internal conflicts, and China continues to urge the military government to engage in inclusive consultations.

On the Rohingya refugee crisis, the Ambassador reaffirmed China’s commitment to a peaceful and voluntary repatriation process. He noted China’s two-pronged strategy: facilitating diplomatic engagement between Bangladesh and Myanmar, and supporting a ceasefire in Myanmar’s Rakhine State to create conducive conditions for return.

In response to questions about the recent aircraft crash in Dhaka, Yao confirmed that Chinese technical experts are scheduled to visit Bangladesh to assist in the investigation. He stressed the need for a thorough and impartial inquiry.

He also highlighted China’s quick response in sending a specialised medical team for burn victims, describing it as a testament to the enduring friendship between the two countries. “This reflects the essence of our relationship – a friend in need is a friend indeed,” he said.

Ambassador Yao confirmed that a China-Bangladesh-Pakistan trilateral dialogue had recently taken place, aimed at reinvigorating stalled regional cooperation. He described the discussions as productive and said the three nations reached consensus on four key principles: goodwill and friendship, equality and mutual trust, openness and inclusiveness, and shared development.

Commenting on international efforts to contain China, Yao dismissed such attempts as ineffective. “China is the world’s second-largest economy and the top trading partner for more than 100 countries. No agreement or strategy can isolate China,” he asserted.

On medical cooperation, Ambassador Yao shared that all Chinese hospitals are open to Bangladeshi patients, with 40-50 medical visas issued monthly. He also announced that a Medical Tourism Expo will be held in Dhaka next month to enhance healthcare collaboration.

Looking ahead, Yao expressed optimism about the future of China-Bangladesh relations, citing ongoing cooperation in trade, healthcare, infrastructure, education, and media exchange. He reaffirmed China’s readiness to implement the Teesta River Restoration Project once the Bangladesh government grants approval.

“We will continue to deepen mutual trust and work together towards a shared future,” the Ambassador concluded.
The event was chaired by DCAB President AKM Moinuddin, with General Secretary Arifuzzaman Mamun also speaking.