China is downplaying concerns that the trade war with the United States will not significantly harm its economic growth, expressing confidence in reaching its GDP target.

Beijing appears to be bedding in for a protracted battle with the US over tariffs. The Chinese government laid out policies Monday to aid its exporters affected by the trade war, including loan support for troubled firms and measures to further boost domestic consumption.

China has advanced this year's stimulus plans but is holding off on fresh measures as it tries to maintain composure, betting on Washington blinking first in a protracted trade war.