Officials in Beijing are increasingly worried that President Donald Trump's tariffs on Mexico may be the start of a broad campaign to force developing countries around the world to choose between trade with the United States or with China.

China will take all necessary measures to safeguard its rights and interests, the Chinese foreign ministry said on Wednesday, after U.S. President Donald Trump increased tariffs on all U.S. steel and aluminium imports.

Beijing, which set steep duties on canola, peas and pork, wants Canada and Mexico to resist U.S. pressure to raise tariffs on Chinese goods.

SINGAPORE—China reported surprisingly robust economic activity to start the year, giving Beijing some wind at its back as it faces the prospect of increased tensions with President Trump’s second administration.

Beijing’s leaders are ordering fiscally strapped local governments to spend more to help workers, consumers and businesses.