BEIJING, April 10 -- Despite the United States dramatically escalating tariff threats against Chinese imports to a potential 104 per cent, analysts and Beijing's own rhetoric suggest China is unlikely to capitulate in the intensifying trade conflict.

The dispute, which saw initial US threats of a 10 per cent tariff just months ago, has rapidly worsened.

China has responded forcefully, condemning the US actions, imposing its own reciprocal 34 per cent tariff on American goods, and vowing publicly to stand its ground.

"When challenged, we will never back down," stated China's foreign ministry spokesperson, Lin Jian, echoing sentiments from the commerce ministry that China "will fight to the end if the US side is bent on going down the wr...