China accuses US of 'double standards' over tariff threat
Original story by: BBC News
Last updated: Oct 12, 2025
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- Context: China has labeled Donald Trump's threat of a 100% tariff on Chinese goods as "US double standards" and warned of potential countermeasures. This exchange escalates recent trade tensions, particularly following China's tightening of rare earth export controls.
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- Detailed Summary:
- US Actions and Accusations: President Trump threatened a 100% tariff on Chinese goods in response to Beijing's stricter rules on rare earth exports, accusing China of being "hostile" and attempting to "hold the world captive." He also suggested canceling a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
- Market Reaction: Trump's comments negatively impacted financial markets, with the S&P 500 experiencing its steepest fall since April, reigniting fears of a US-China trade war.
- China's Response: A Chinese Commerce Ministry spokesperson called Trump's threat a "typical example of US double standards" and stated China is "not afraid" of a trade war, reserving the right to introduce its own "countermeasures."
- Rare Earths Significance: China's decision to tighten export controls on rare earths, materials vital for advanced technology and of which China processes about 90% globally, is a significant strategic move.
- Past Agreements and Current Tariffs: The current situation contrasts with an agreement in May to drop tariffs, which had previously threatened to halt trade. As a result, US tariffs on Chinese goods have increased by 30% year-on-year, while US goods entering China face a 10% tariff.
- China's Defense of Export Controls: China defended its rare earth export controls as "normal actions" for national security, criticizing US export restrictions on chips and semiconductors.
- US Export Control Criticism: China stated the US has "overstretched the concept of national security" and "abused export control measures" with "discriminatory practices against China."
- Stance on Trade War: China reiterated its consistent position: "we do not want one, but we are not afraid of one."
- Upcoming Meeting Uncertainty: The potential meeting between Trump and Xi Jinping at a summit in South Korea later this month is now uncertain.
- Geopolitical Interpretation: Some observers view these recent exchanges as strategic positioning by both nations ahead of future trade negotiations.
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