In a major escalation of U.S.-China trade tensions, President Donald Trump announced on Friday that the United States will impose an additional 100 percent tariff on all Chinese imports starting November 1. The move, he said, is in direct response to China’s newly announced export controls on the rare earth sector, which are critical materials used in high-tech and defense industries.
Responding to the development, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian emphasized that China strongly rejects the new U.S. tariff measures and the broader restrictions Washington has recently imposed on Chinese industries. Lin reiterated that China “firmly rejects the recent U.S. restrictions and sanctions on China, and will do what is necessary to protect its legitimate rights and interests.”
He stated that threatening or imposing high tariffs is not the correct approach to handle disputes with China. Instead, Lin urged the U.S. government to “correct its approach and act on the common understandings the two presidents reached in their phone calls.” He added that the two sides should resolve differences through dialogue and manage tensions on the basis of equality, respect, and mutual benefit, in order to maintain a “steady, sound and sustainable” track for bilateral relations.
The spokesperson made it clear that while China prefers dialogue, it will not hesitate to take firm countermeasures if the U.S. proceeds with its tariff hike. “If the U.S. keeps refusing to change course, China will be firmly resolved in taking measures to safeguard its own legitimate rights and interests,” Lin said.
The announcement comes at a sensitive moment in the global economic landscape, as both major economies have been struggling to stabilize supply chains and manage inflationary pressures. The rare earth sector, which plays a crucial role in semiconductors, renewable energy technologies, and defense equipment, has once again become a focal point of geopolitical friction.
Trump’s declaration marks one of the most aggressive tariff measures against China since the original trade war that began in 2018. Analysts warn that the move could reignite economic uncertainty and disrupt global markets, particularly in sectors reliant on Chinese exports.
With both sides signaling readiness to defend their economic interests, the coming weeks may determine whether the world’s two largest economies can return to dialogue or slide into another round of retaliatory trade actions.
Disclaimer: This article is based on official remarks from the Chinese Foreign Ministry and recent statements by U.S. President Donald Trump. The information reflects the current diplomatic and trade developments between the United States and China as of October 2025.
