China Vows to Fight US Tariffs “to the End” as Rare earth Export Controls Take Effect
BEIJING - China is prepared for a prolonged trade dispute with the United States, a spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Commerce declared today, responding to ongoing US tariffs and announcing new export controls on key rare earth technologies. The move signals a hardening of Beijing’s stance amid escalating tensions over technology and trade.
The announcement comes as the two nations attempt to navigate a complex relationship marked by competition and cooperation.While recent talks, including negotiations in Madrid in September regarding tiktok, offered a brief respite, China alleges the US has continued to impose restrictions that undermine the spirit of those discussions. The stakes are high,impacting global supply chains and potentially triggering further economic repercussions for both countries and beyond.
The Ministry spokesperson justified the new controls, which require licenses for the export of certain rare earth technologies, stating they are intended to strengthen export management, not to enact a ban.”The requests [d’exportation] who meet current requirements will continue to be granted licenses as before, and we will maintain both the security and stability of global industrial and supply chains,” the spokesperson said.
China informed the US in advance of the new regulations, according to the Ministry. However, the spokesperson accused the US of consistently implementing new restrictions against China since the Madrid meeting, “seriously harming its interests and seriously harming the atmosphere of bilateral economic and trade negotiations.”
The official emphasized China’s commitment to dialog, citing four rounds of economic and trade negotiations as evidence that solutions can be found “on the basis of mutual respect and equal consultations.” Working discussions were reportedly held again on Monday under the bilateral economic consultation mechanism.
“the past four rounds of economic and trade negotiations have amply demonstrated that China and the United States can find solutions to problems on the basis of mutual respect and equal consultations,” the spokesperson stated. Despite this willingness to engage, the spokesperson’s overall tone indicated a firm resolve to defend China’s economic interests, adding that the country is ready to “fight to the end.”
