China has declared its readiness to "fight to the end" in the ongoing trade war with the United States. This statement comes in response to U.S. President Donald Trump's announcement of an additional 100% tariff on Chinese imports, raising the total tariff to 130%. The remarks were made by an unnamed spokesperson from China's Commerce Ministry on Tuesday.
The spokesperson emphasized, "On the matter of tariff wars and trade wars, China's position remains consistent. If you wish to fight, we shall fight to the end; if you wish to negotiate, our door remains open." This warning follows Trump's recent decision, which he stated was a direct reaction to China's new export controls on rare earths, a sector where China holds significant influence.
The announcement of the tariffs has caused concern in financial markets and has cast doubt on a potential meeting between Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping in South Korea. In addition to the tariffs, Trump indicated that the U.S. would also implement export controls on critical software starting November 1.
In defense of its actions, China described the export controls on rare earths as legal and necessary. The spokesperson reiterated that these measures are legitimate actions aimed at enhancing China's export control system in line with its laws and regulations. They added, "As a responsible major power, China has consistently and resolutely safeguarded its own national security and international collective security."