China calls with SA, Saudi as US trade war intensifies

Cape Town – China’s Commerce Minister Wang Wentao reportedly held separate video discussions with his Saudi Arabian and South African counterparts on Thursday, focusing on responses to US “reciprocal tariffs” and strengthening economic ties.

“During the meeting with Saudi Arabia, China expressed its continued commitment to boosting trade with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states, highlighting shared goals in energy, infrastructure, and digital trade,” the International Trade Council said on its website on Friday,

“The dialogue with South Africa emphasised the importance of coordinated efforts within platforms such as the G20 and BRICS to support open trade and inclusive economic growth.”

Tensions mount in the global economy as China responds to the United States’ 145% tariff hike by imposing a 125% tariff on American goods. Beijing has reached out to Pretoria to assess the ripple effects, with Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao engaging Trade and Industry… pic.twitter.com/HXWLDkiApl

— Newzroom Afrika (@Newzroom405) April 11, 2025

According to Reuters, the Chinese ministry did not provide further details on the discussions.

Meanwhile, China said on Friday it would raise its tariffs on US goods to 125 percent in a further escalation of a trade war that threatens to bring exports to a halt between the world’s two biggest economies.

Beijing’s retaliation sparked fresh market volatility, with European stocks seesawing following the announcement while Tokyo and Seoul closed in the red.

China’s Commerce Minister Wang Wentao held key discussions with his counterparts from Saudi Arabia and South Africa to exchange strategic views on responding to the U.S.’s reciprocal tariffs.

These high-level conversations emphasized enhancing bilateral economic and trade… pic.twitter.com/amYjaSnKj6

— African Trade Chamber (@ATC_Chamber) April 11, 2025