In a sharp escalation of tensions between Beijing and Washington, China has fiercely criticized U.S. Vice President JD Vance for comments he made referring to “Chinese peasants” as the backbone of global markets.
The remarks, delivered during a recent interview, prompted a swift and scathing response from China’s Foreign Ministry, which branded Vance “ignorant and impolite” in a two-word swipe that has reverberated across international headlines.
According to the Irish Star, Vance’s controversial statement claimed that global markets were “fuelled by Chinese peasants,” a characterization that Beijing interpreted as both derogatory and dismissive of its economic achievements.
The outlet reported that China’s Foreign Ministry spokesman, Lin Jian, expressed dismay, stating, “It’s both astonishing and lamentable to hear this vice president make such ignorant and disrespectful remarks.”
This retort, widely covered by outlets like CNN and China Daily, underscores Beijing’s intent to push back against what it perceives as an affront to its national dignity.
CNN (April 8, 2025) detailed the broader context of Vance’s comments, noting that they came amid ongoing trade disputes exacerbated by President Donald Trump’s tariffs on Chinese goods.
The network highlighted posts on X where users expressed outrage, with one calling Vance “an inexperienced, wet behind the ears shitball” unfit to represent the U.S. on the global stage.
China’s response, however, went beyond rhetoric, with officials signaling no willingness to negotiate over the tariffs—a stance that suggests further diplomatic friction lies ahead.
China Daily offered Beijing’s official perspective, quoting Lin Jian as saying Vance’s words were “surprising and sad,” particularly given the U.S.’s reliance on Chinese manufacturing.
The state-run outlet emphasized China’s resolve to stand firm, framing the incident as part of a broader pattern of American leaders misrepresenting the country’s economic role.
Meanwhile, the Irish Star noted that Vance’s remarks have drawn ire not only from China but also from other global figures, including Pope Francis, whom Vance has reportedly upset with unrelated comments since taking office.
Posts on X, as reported by various users on April 8 and 9, 2025, reflect a mix of sentiments. Some, like @HISteveWilliams, amplified Beijing’s fury, summarizing it as a reaction to Vance’s claim that China’s economy is “fuelled by ‘peasants.'”
Others, such as @Area51Field, quipped that the Vice President “should be like children, seen, not heard,” indicating domestic frustration with his outspokenness. The social media buzz underscores how quickly the controversy has spread beyond diplomatic circles.
