(MENAFN) China on Monday responded to US President Donald Trump’s threat to impose 100% tariffs on Chinese imports, stating that such measures are “not the right way” to handle bilateral trade issues.

Speaking in Beijing, Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian said, “The US has continuously introduced a series of restrictive and sanction measures targeting China, which have seriously harmed China’s interests, and China firmly opposes these actions.” He added, “Instead of engaging in self-reflection, the US has resorted to threats of higher tariffs, which is not the right way to deal with China,” according to state media reports.

The comments followed Trump’s announcement on Friday that he would impose new 100% tariffs on Chinese goods and restrict the export of “critical software” starting November 1, in response to China’s new limitations on rare earth mineral exports. However, Trump later signaled a softer stance on Sunday, posting on Truth Social: “Don't worry about China, it will all be fine,” suggesting trade tensions could be resolved.

China has introduced stricter export controls on rare earths, including limits on processing and manufacturing technologies and requiring government approval for foreign collaborations. Lin emphasized that Beijing has called on Washington to “correct its wrongful actions as soon as possible” and to resolve issues through dialogue guided by “equality, mutual respect and reciprocity,” in line with prior agreements between the two leaders.

He warned, “If the US insists on going its own way, China will take firm and necessary measures to safeguard its legitimate rights and interests.” China’s Commerce Ministry also stated on Sunday that the country is “not afraid of” a trade war following Trump’s tariff threats.

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