šØš³ China Fires Back at Trump’s Tariff Threat
China has sharply criticized the United States after former President Donald Trump threatened to impose a 100% tariff on Chinese goods, calling it a “typical example of U.S. double standards.”
A spokesperson for China’s Commerce Ministry said the country would not hesitate to take “strong countermeasures” if the U.S. proceeds with the threat, warning that Beijing is “not afraid of a trade war.”
š¬ Tensions Escalate After Rare Earth Dispute
The latest confrontation erupted after China tightened export controls on rare earth minerals — essential materials for smartphones, electric vehicles, and clean energy technologies.
In response, Trump accused Beijing of “holding the world hostage” and hinted at canceling a scheduled meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping later this month.
The U.S. stock market reacted immediately, with the S&P 500 dropping 2.7%, its steepest decline since April, as investors feared a new trade war could destabilize global markets.
⚙️ China Denounces U.S. Hypocrisy on Trade Policy
In a written statement, the Chinese Commerce Ministry said the U.S. has “abused export control measures” and “overstretched the concept of national security” to target China unfairly.
China defended its export restrictions on rare earths as “necessary to protect global security”, rejecting Washington’s criticism as “discriminatory and politically motivated.”
“Resorting to tariff threats is not the right way to engage with China,” the spokesperson added. “We do not want a tariff war — but we are not afraid of one.”
š Global Impact and Uncertain Future Talks
China currently processes about 90% of the world’s rare earth minerals, giving it significant leverage in global supply chains.
Both sides had previously agreed to reduce tariffs earlier this year, but tensions have resurfaced amid growing competitionition in technology and manufacturing dominance.
It remains unclear if the planned meeting between Trump and Xi Jinping in South Korea will proceed, as both leaders now appear to be strengthening their positions before any future negotiations.