Trade relations between the United States and China have seen a renewed escalation following a period of tentative de-escalation. This shift occurred after China announced new controls on rare earth metals and products made from them.
U.S. President Donald Trump stated he was surprised by China’s new measures, noting they occurred despite what he had described as a “very good” relationship in recent months. In contrast, Chinese commentators argued that Beijing’s actions were a response to new technological restrictions imposed by the United States, characterizing Washington as the instigator.
Both nations reportedly maintain the belief that they hold an advantage in the ongoing economic dispute. The situation further developed with President Trump’s subsequent announcement of new 100 percent tariffs on Chinese imports, scheduled to take effect on November 1. This move drew criticism from Chinese analysts and commentators, though the Chinese government did not issue an immediate official response.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/10/11/world/asia/china-trump-tariff-threat.html