Trump threatens 50% tariffs on China: Here's what you need to know

• China denounced Trump's 50% tariff threat as 'groundless smears' and 'unproductive'.
• China's Foreign Ministry urged 'unimpeded navigation' through the Strait of Hormuz, noting Iran accounts for 13.4% of China's seaborne crude.
• China is concerned about 'losing face' politically and is diversifying energy sources and stockpiling oil to mitigate potential disruptions.

CNBC's Eunice Yoon reports from Beijing on China's reaction to President Trump's threat of 50% tariffs and a potential Strait of Hormuz blockade. China denounced the tariff threats as 'groundless smears' and 'unproductive' and called for 'unimpeded navigation' through the Strait, emphasizing its economic and political interests in the region. Beijing is actively stockpiling oil and diversifying its energy sources to reduce reliance on external supplies.