In response to the steep US tariffs on washing machines and solar panels, Chinese media yesterday warned that China may take retaliatory measures if the US levies more tariffs, although there were no immediate tit-for-tat moves from Beijing.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Hua Chunying said: "Trade protectionism is a double-edged sword. In using it to hurt others, the wielder also hurts him or herself."

On Monday, US President Donald Trump signed an executive order that imposed tariffs on imported solar panels and washers. The move is seen as largely aimed at China in the case of solar panels, and South Korea in that of washing machines.

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