(Yicai Global) July 13 -- China's Ministry of Commerce Thursday said that the country is not afraid of a trade war if there are no other options left.

Gao Feng, Ministry of Commerce spokesman, made the comment at a regular press briefing. He said the resolution of trade frictions with the US will rest on trust between the world's two largest economies during negotiations.

"China's attitude has been consistent and clear-cut. We don't want a trade war, but we don't fear one and have been forced to fight back," Gao said.

Gao's remarks came after the US issued a list of Chinese goods worth 200 billion US dollars that will be hit with new tariffs after two months of public hearings.

China, US Have Not Resumed Trade Talks

"China has not been in touch with the US about continuing trade talks," Gao said, "and China has repeatedly stated that the precondition for negotiations is mutual trust."

"China resolutely opposes the US's trade bullying behaviour and will have no choice but to strike back," Gao said, adding that a trade war is not the answer and will only cause more problems.

He also said the US' accusations of China's so-called forced technology transfers and the stealing of intellectual property twist the facts of history and are completely unacceptable.

US Companies Operating in China Affected

American firms operating in China, together with other foreign companies, will also be affected by the tariffs, Gao said.

He said China hopes the US companies affected will lobby the US government and defend their interests.

Also on Thursday, a survey by the American Chamber of Commerce in Shanghai showed that most US firms operating in China oppose the use of tariffs.

China to Further Improve Its Business Environment

The spokesman also said that China will further improve its business environment and protect the legal rights and interests of foreign companies.

China has a stable investment environment, the ability to support industry, and has an upgrading and open consumer market with great potential, Gao said, adding efforts will be made to make it the first choice for foreign investors.