Trump Defends 100% Tariffs on China Following Rare Earth Mineral Export Controls

Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump

US President Donald Trump has defended his decision to impose 100% tariffs on China, stating it was a necessary response to Beijing's tightening of export controls on rare earth minerals. During a Fox Business interview, Trump characterized the action as something "he was forced to do," despite the challenging nature of the decision.

"He (Chinese President Xi Jinping) squeezed the US by tightening the export controls on rare earth minerals. I raised our tariffs to 100% on top of what they're already paying, which is far worse. Far worse. It's not sustainable, but that's what the number is. It's probably not. But they forced me to do that," Trump explained during the interview.

Trump also noted his historically positive relationship with China while acknowledging ongoing trade tensions: "We'll see what happens with China. I've always had a great relationship with them, but they're always looking for an edge. You know, they ripped off our country for years."

The President confirmed plans for an upcoming meeting with President Xi in South Korea to discuss the trade situation. "We're going to meet in South Korea with President Xi and other people, too. We have a separate meeting set up," he stated.

Despite implementing severe tariffs, Trump expressed optimism about future US-China relations, praising Xi as "a very strong leader" and "an amazing man" with a life story worthy of "a great movie." He emphasized the need for fair trade arrangements, stating, "I think we're going to be fine with China, but we have to have a fair deal. It's got to be fair."

These comments follow Trump's announcement last week that the United States would impose an additional 100% tariff on Chinese goods beginning November 1, specifically in response to Beijing's new export controls on rare earth minerals—a sector where China currently holds a dominant position globally.

Interestingly, Trump had struck a more conciliatory tone earlier on Sunday, posting on Truth Social: "The USA wants to help China, not hurt it!!!" He added that "respected President Xi (Jinping)... doesn't want Depression for his country."