China's sluggish economy could hinder negotiations on Trump tariffs

Weak consumer spending leaves less room to ramp up U.S. imports

China hit the U.S. with fresh tariffs on crude oil and liquefied natural gas on Monday, responding to new duties on Chinese imports imposed by the Trump administration. © Reuters

KENTARO SHIOZAKI

February 11, 2025 02:54 JST

BEIJING -- As it exchanges blows with the U.S. on trade, China is struggling with a lack of domestic demand that may limit its ability to offer concessions on imports of American goods.

China on Monday imposed additional tariffs of 15% on American coal and liquefied natural gas (LNG) along with a 10% duty on crude oil, retaliating against tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump's administration on Feb. 4.