China accused U.S. President Donald Trump on Friday of damaging the global trading system by hiking steel and aluminum tariffs, while Japan and South Korea expressed alarm at potential economic costs.
China’s Commerce Ministry said it “firmly opposes” Trump’s move. It gave no indication whether Beijing might make good on threats to retaliate.
Asian stock markets rose Friday on relief that Trump’s measures were not more severe. Traders also were encouraged by news Trump might meet North Korean leader Kim Jong-un.