China Hits Back at US Over Tariff Threats, Accuses Washington of “Double Standards”
China’s government has criticized the United States over President Donald Trump’s latest warning to impose a 100% tariff on Chinese imports, calling it a “typical example of US double standards.”
The Chinese Ministry of Commerce said Beijing is prepared to respond with countermeasures if Trump follows through on his threat, adding that China is “not afraid” of a potential trade war.
Last week, Trump reacted sharply to China’s decision to tighten export rules on rare earth materials, accusing Beijing of “becoming very hostile” and trying to hold global markets “captive.” He even suggested withdrawing from a planned meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping later this month.
Market Reactions and Economic Impact
Trump’s remarks caused turbulence in global financial markets, with the S&P 500 index falling 2.7%, its biggest drop since April. Meanwhile, China’s Shenzhen Composite Index fell by 0.74%, and Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index slid 1.5%.
These developments have reignited fears of a renewed trade war between the world’s two largest economies.
Earlier this year, both nations had agreed to lift triple-digit tariffs imposed during previous trade conflicts. Still, tensions remain high as US goods entering China now face a 10% tariff, while Chinese goods face an added 30% tariff.
China’s Response: Defending National Interests
In a written statement, China’s commerce ministry criticized the US for “overstretching the concept of national security” and “abusing export control measures.”
Rare Earths: The Strategic Resource
China controls around 90% of global rare earth processing, giving it significant leverage in global technology manufacturing. The latest export restrictions are viewed as a strategic move to safeguard its dominance in this sector.
Experts believe the sharp exchanges between Washington and Beijing are likely positioning tactics before the upcoming South Korea summit, where Trump and Xi were expected to meet.
Whether that meeting proceeds or not remains uncertain, but the escalating rhetoric signals that economic tensions between the US and China are far from over.
