Chinese state media defends Canada's retaliatory tariffs as 'Chinese-style counterattack'

Chinese state media has voiced strong support for Canada's decision to impose retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods, characterizing it as a "Chinese-style counterattack." The Global Times, in a commentary, asserted that no nation possesses the right to exclusively control international rules or determine the destiny of other countries, implicitly criticizing American trade practices.

The publication highlighted Canada's move as a "firm and proportional response, uncompromising defense of sovereignty, and adherence to rules and legitimate countermeasures." It suggested that the U.S. likely did not anticipate such a decisive reaction from Canada, a former close ally. The commentary detailed Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney's announcement of dollar-for-dollar retaliatory tariffs on U.S. steel, dairy, appliances, and other goods, set to take effect on July 8.

While U.S. Trade Representative Jamieeek Greear dismissed Canada's actions as "something China would do," the Global Times used this remark to bolster its argument. The newspaper stated that Canada's response showcases values long championed by China: firm, proportional actions, unwavering sovereignty defense, and rule-based countermeasures. It framed Canada's decision not as a unique Chinese approach but as a fundamental principle of reciprocity in global trade, presenting it as a legitimate shield against unilateral pressure.

The commentary further suggested that Canada's adoption of a "Chinese-style counterattack" could set a precedent, potentially inspiring other nations like the EU, Japan, or South Korea to adopt similar stances against protectionism. The article concluded by asserting that Canada's move delivers a significant blow to protectionism and validates the necessity and legitimacy of China's own reciprocal trade measures.