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China has condemned President Donald Trump’s threat to impose a 100% tariff on Chinese imports.

Some shit you should know before you dig in: Earlier this week, President Trump warned in a series of Truth Social posts that he would likely impose a 100% tariff on all Chinese imports starting November 1, citing what he described as China’s “hostile” and “morally disgraceful” actions. He claimed the move was necessary in response to Beijing’s new export restrictions on rare earth elements (critical materials used in everything from electric vehicles and smartphones to advanced military systems). Trump argued that China’s near-monopoly on the global rare earth supply chain (accounting for roughly 70% of mining and 90% of processing) gives it dangerous leverage over key US industries and national security infrastructure. He also announced unspecified new export controls on “critical software,” framing the escalating trade measures as essential to protecting American sovereignty and reducing dependence on Chinese-controlled resources.

What’s going on now: In a notable development, China has pushed back on Trump’s threats, warning that it will not bow to economic pressure and is prepared to take retaliatory action if necessary. In its first official response, the Chinese Ministry of Commerce stated, “We do not want a tariff war, but we are not afraid of one.” The ministry criticized the USfor resorting to aggressive trade tactics, asserting that “frequently resorting to the threat of high tariffs is not the correct way to get along with China.”

China called for resolving disputes through dialogue, not confrontation, and said it was ready to “resolutely take corresponding measures to safeguard its legitimate rights and interests” if the US proceeds with tariffs.

China also defended its recently expanded export controls on rare earth elements and related technologies, which were the trigger for Trump’s tariff threat. The new rules require foreign companies to obtain government approval before exporting any products containing trace amounts of Chinese-sourced rare earths, even if manufactured elsewhere. The ministry explained that the measures are aimed at protecting national security and preventing the misuse of these materials, which are crucial to both civilian and military technologies.

Trump responds: In a brief statement on Truth Social, Trump wrote, “Don’t worry about China, it will all be fine! Highly respected President Xi just had a bad moment. He doesn’t want Depression for his country, and neither do I. The USA wants to help China, not hurt it!!! President DJT.”