China is preparing countermeasures against new U.S. import tariffs, with American agricultural exports as a primary target, according to the state-backed Global Times.

Axar.az, citing Reuters, reports that this follows former U.S. President Donald Trump's threat to impose an additional 10% tariff on Chinese goods, citing concerns over fentanyl.

China's response is expected to include both tariff and non-tariff measures, potentially impacting key U.S. agricultural products like soybeans, meat, and grains. The U.S. agricultural sector, already affected by past trade disputes, may struggle to find alternative markets. Following the news, China's soymeal and rapeseed meal futures surged.

China’s agricultural imports from the U.S. fell to $29.25 billion in 2024, continuing a declining trend from previous years. Analysts suggest China still hopes to negotiate with the Trump administration, but with no talks scheduled, tensions are escalating. Experts warn that Trump's tariffs could "backfire," prompting strong retaliation from China, as seen in previous trade conflicts.

Amid ongoing political developments in China, Beijing is weighing its options, emphasizing its readiness to counter external economic pressures while signaling a willingness to return to negotiations.