China Slams U.S. Over “Double Standards” as Trump Unveils Harsh New Tariffs

Beijing/Washington, Oct. 12 — China has sharply criticised the United States for what it called “double standards,” after President Donald Trump announced sweeping new tariffs on Chinese imports. The U.S. administration plans to impose an additional 100% tariff on all Chinese goods starting November 1, bringing the total duties to roughly 130%—the highest in decades. Beijing warned that the move could severely disrupt global trade and economic stability.

In a statement, China’s Ministry of Commerce condemned Washington’s decision, saying, “Willful threats of high tariffs are not the right way to get along with China.” The spokesperson reaffirmed Beijing’s stance on the trade conflict, adding, “Our position on the trade war is consistent. We do not want it, but we are not afraid of it.”

The announcement followed the U.S. move to tighten export controls on critical software, further escalating tensions between the world’s two largest economies. President Trump accused Beijing of engaging in “extraordinarily aggressive and hostile trade practices” after China restricted exports of several products, including rare earth elements, vital to industries such as clean energy and advanced electronics.

Economists have warned that the latest tariffs could trigger significant supply chain disruptions, driving up production costs and consumer prices across the U.S., Asia, and Europe. Industries dependent on Chinese raw materials and components are likely to face delays, shortages, and increased operational expenses, potentially slowing economic recovery.

The renewed trade hostilities have also raised doubts over planned diplomatic engagements, including a potential meeting between President Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping at the upcoming APEC Summit. Observers say the chances of meaningful progress in bilateral relations are diminishing amid the intensifying tariff war and mounting geopolitical frictions.