U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer Robert (Bob) Emmet LighthizerWhiskey, workers and friends caught in the trade dispute crossfire GOP senator warns quick vote on new NAFTA would be 'huge mistake' Pelosi casts doubt on USMCA deal in 2019 MORE defended President Trump Donald John TrumpBubba Wallace to be driver of Michael Jordan, Denny Hamlin NASCAR team Graham: GOP will confirm Trump's Supreme Court nominee before the election Southwest Airlines, unions call for six-month extension of government aid MORE's consideration to impose $100 billion in additional tariffs on China on Thursday, calling the move an "appropriate response" to Beijing.

“President Trump is proposing an appropriate response to China’s recent threat of new tariffs," Lighthizer said in a statement Thursday night.

“Unfortunately, China has chosen to respond thus far with threats to impose unjustified tariffs on billions of dollars in U.S. exports, including our agricultural products," he said.

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"Such measures would undoubtedly cause further harm to American workers, farmers, and businesses. Under these circumstances, the President is right to ask for additional appropriate action to obtain the elimination of the unfair acts, policies, and practices identified in [the U.S. Trade Representative's] report,” he said.

Trump announced on Thursday he was ordering the U.S. Trade Representative to consider the new tariffs amid the escalating trade dispute with China.

Lighthizer conducted a Section 301 investigation that determined Beijing has unfairly forced American firms to turn over intellectual property and technology in order to do business in China.

The White House on Tuesday slapped a $50 billion tariff package on China, with 25 percent tariffs being levied on imports of Chinese electronics, shoes, furniture and other goods.

Beijing retaliated on Wednesday, hitting the U.S. with 25 percent tariffs on imports of U.S. soybeans, corn, airplanes and automobiles in a package that totals about $50 billion worth of goods.