“China has always advocated that China and the US should adopt a positive and cooperative attitude towards differences and controversies in economic and trade fields,” commerce ministry spokeswoman He Yongqian told a weekly news conference.

“But it must be stressed that any form of communication and consultation must be based on mutual respect, equality and mutual benefit,” she said.

“Threats and intimidation can only be counterproductive. It is hoped that the US and China will work together… to return to the correct track of resolving issues through dialogue and consultation,” Yongqian said.

Since retaking office in January, US President Donald Trump has unleashed tariffs on major trading partners including China, Canada and Mexico, citing their failure to stem the flow of deadly fentanyl and related precursor chemicals.

This month saw Trump raise a 10% blanket tariff he previously imposed on Chinese products to 20%.

Beijing responded with levies of up to 15% on a range of US agricultural goods including soybeans, pork and chicken.

China, the world’s top steel producer also vowed yesterday to take “all necessary measures” to protect its interests in response to separate new US tariffs on steel and aluminium imports.