China Strongly Rejects U.S.–Taiwan Trade Agreement, Reiterates One-China Policy

Beijing | January 16, 2026 China on Friday expressed strong opposition to a newly signed trade deal between the United States and Taiwan, which aims to lower tariffs on Taiwanese goods and encourage greater investment from the self-ruled island into the U.S. The agreement has once again heightened diplomatic tensions between Beijing and Washington. Responding to the development, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun stated that China “consistently and resolutely opposes” any form of agreement signed between countries that maintain diplomatic relations with China and the Taiwan region. He urged the United States to strictly adhere to the one-China principle and respect China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Beijing views Taiwan as an inseparable part of its territory and has long objected to any international arrangements that treat the island as a separate political or economic entity. Chinese officials have repeatedly warned that such moves undermine regional stability and violate established diplomatic understandings. China has also reiterated that it has not ruled out the use of force to bring Taiwan under its control, especially in response to what it sees as foreign interference. The latest trade deal is expected to further strain U.S.–China relations amid already ongoing geopolitical and economic rivalries. China Slams U.S.–Taiwan Trade Pact, Warns Against Violating One-China Policy China on Friday voiced firm opposition to a new trade agreement between the United States and Taiwan that focuses on cutting tariffs on Taiwanese goods and boosting the island’s investments in the American market. The deal has drawn sharp criticism from Beijing, which views such engagements as a direct challenge to its sovereignty claims. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said Beijing “resolutely opposes” any agreements signed between countries that maintain diplomatic ties with China and what it calls the Taiwan region. He urged Washington to respect the one-China principle and avoid actions that could escalate regional tensions. China maintains that Taiwan is an integral part of its territory and has consistently objected to international arrangements that appear to treat the island as a separate entity. Officials argue that such moves undermine political trust and disrupt stability in the Asia-Pacific region. Reiterating its long-standing stance, Beijing stressed that it has not ruled out the use of force to achieve reunification if necessary. The latest trade pact is expected to further strain already fragile relations between China and the United States.