Washington DC, October 11(HS): US President Donald Trump announced plans to impose an additional 100% tariff on imports from China starting next month, escalating the ongoing trade tensions between the two economic giants. The move comes in response to China’s recent tightening of export controls on rare earth minerals—critical components in products ranging from smartphones to cars—triggering sharp criticism from Trump, who accused Beijing of becoming very hostile and attempting to hold the world captive.

Trump also revealed intentions to enforce export controls on sensitive software, intensifying pressure on China amid an already fragile trade détente established earlier this year. Despite threats to cancel an upcoming meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Trump stated he would attend regardless, though uncertainty remains over the summit's status.

The Chinese crackdown on rare earth exports and a monopoly investigation into US tech firm Qualcomm have further fueled tensions, while Beijing has announced new port fees targeting US-linked vessels. Experts warn that these aggressive economic measures could disrupt global supply chains and push both countries toward a renewed trade conflict.

Financial markets reacted negatively, with the S&P 500 showing its steepest decline since April after Trump’s remarks. Observers highlight that China’s dominance in rare earths production grants it substantial leverage in trade negotiations, especially regarding the US defense sector, which relies heavily on these materials.

Though negotiations may still be possible before China’s export rules take full effect in December, the dispute reflects deeper geopolitical and economic rivalries shaping US-China relations.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar