U.S. tariffs will inflict significant harm on the U.S. economy as other countries hit back with "high tariffs" on American goods, Chinese state media warned, leaving the door open for more measures by Beijing as another wave of levies looms.

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.

Consumption in China grew faster to start the year, helping offset the impact of Donald Trump’s tariffs that are putting pressure on exporters in the world’s largest trading nation.