China asks the United States not to underestimate the country's determination to protect its interests, said the Chinese Foreign Ministry amid threats of additional U.S. tariffs.
Geng Shuang, the spokesperson of the ministry, made the remarks after Washington threatened to extend tariffs to virtually all Chinese imports.
The U.S. Trade Representative is set to hold a public hearing on tariffs on June 17.
Imposing additional tariffs cannot solve the problem, Geng said, adding that a trade war is harmful to both sides.
"China doesn't want a trade war, but is not afraid of fighting one," Geng reiterated.
"We will not succumb to any external pressure and we have the determination and ability to defend our legitimate rights and interests," Geng said.
