Beijing Says It’s ‘Not Afraid’ of Trade War After Trump’s Tariff Threats

​​​​​​​Beijing has stated that it is “not afraid of” a trade war with the United States, responding to Donald Trump’s new tariff threats and plans to impose export restrictions. The remarks, reported by the Global Times on Sunday, came shortly after Trump announced sweeping measures targeting Chinese goods and advanced technologies.

A spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Commerce criticized the former U.S. president’s remarks as “willful threats,” saying such an approach is not a constructive way to manage bilateral relations. “China’s stance is clear — we do not want a trade war, but we are not afraid of one,” the official said, stressing that Beijing would continue to act in line with principles of fairness, security, and prudence when implementing export control policies.

On Friday, Trump announced via his platform Truth Social that he intends to impose 100% tariffs on Chinese imports starting November 1, 2025, or earlier if Beijing takes further actions. He also vowed to introduce export restrictions on “all critical software,” accusing China of undermining U.S. interests through its recent industrial policies.

The U.S. threats followed China’s decision last Thursday to tighten export rules on rare earth minerals, materials vital for global high-tech industries. The new Chinese regulations expand existing limits on mining, smelting, and manufacturing technologies and prohibit foreign partnerships without government approval. Beijing described the move as a measure to protect national security and maintain control over strategic resources.

The exchange marks another escalation in the long-running U.S.–China trade dispute, which has already reshaped global supply chains and affected international markets. Analysts warn that a renewed trade war could disrupt technology production and resource flows across Asia, including partners such as Türkiye, which has deepening trade ties with both Washington and Beijing.