China puts tariffs on US meat and fruits in retaliatory measures

China is rolling out new tariffs on US meat, fruit and other products as retaliation against taxes approved by President Donald Trump on imported steel and aluminium.

The Chinese finance ministry said in a statement that the new tariffs begin on Monday.

The announcement follows warnings Chinese officials have made for several weeks in an escalating trade dispute with the United States.

China's Customs Tariff Commission is increasing the tariff rate on eight imported US products, including pork, by 25%.

It is also imposing a new 15% tariff on 120 imported US commodities, including fruits.

The tariffs mirror Mr Trump's 25% charge on imported steel and 15% hike on aluminium.

Mr Trump's tariffs are partly a response to complaints that Beijing steals or pressures foreign companies to hand over technology.

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