Trump Accuses China of ‘Hostility’ Amid New Export Controls
The remarks came after China declared fresh restrictions on certain minerals deemed critical to military and industrial supply chains.
United States, PUREWILAYAH.COM - U.S. President Donald Trump has sharply condemned China’s newly announced export controls on rare earth elements and strategic minerals, accusing Beijing of “becoming very hostile” and warning that Washington is preparing a strong economic response, including a possible increase in tariffs on Chinese goods.
The remarks came after China declared fresh restrictions on certain minerals deemed critical to military and industrial supply chains. Beijing stated that the decision was taken to protect national security and fulfill international obligations, including those related to non-proliferation.
China’s Export Restrictions on Critical Materials
On Thursday, Chinese authorities introduced measures to regulate the export of key rare earth elements and other materials used in advanced manufacturing and defense technologies. According to Beijing, these controls are designed to ensure responsible use of strategic resources and prevent their misuse.
The announcement reportedly included detailed notices sent to multiple countries, outlining which elements would be subject to new limitations. China is currently the world’s leading supplier of rare earth minerals, which are essential in electronics, renewable energy systems, and military equipment.
Trump’s Accusation of ‘Hostility’
Responding on Truth Social, President Trump described China’s move as an “unprecedented and hostile” act. He stated that Washington is considering “a massive increase of tariffs” on Chinese imports as part of potential countermeasures.
“This would clog the markets, and make life difficult for virtually every country in the world,” Trump wrote, claiming that several world leaders had already contacted the United States expressing concern over market instability.
Trump also noted that China’s timing was unexpected, given what he described as recent improvements in bilateral relations.
The U.S. president further warned that he may cancel a planned meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the upcoming APEC summit in South Korea.
The announcement raises concerns over the future of ongoing trade discussions and high-level diplomatic engagement between Washington and Beijing.
Tariff Truce Under Pressure
In August, the United States and China agreed to extend their tariff truce following prolonged trade tensions.
During this pause, U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods were reduced from 145% to 30%, while Chinese tariffs on American imports decreased from 125% to 10%. The extension is due to expire in November.
Trump stressed that relations with China over the past six months had been “very good,” making Beijing’s recent export measures “even more surprising.”
The United States has expressed concern that China’s export controls could disrupt global supply chains across multiple sectors, including technology, defense, and manufacturing.
Trump warned that withholding strategic minerals could impact “virtually every country in the world,” given the widespread reliance on Chinese rare earth supplies.
No formal U.S. response has yet been announced, but Washington is reportedly evaluating options involving increased tariffs and trade restrictions. China has not issued any additional clarification beyond its official statement on national security and export compliance. (PW)