Beijing doubled down on its confrontational rhetoric on Tuesday, warning that China would “fight to the end” in a trade war with the United States, even as it claimed openness to dialogue.

An unnamed Commerce Ministry spokesperson defended China’s recent export controls on rare earths as lawful, asserting these actions strengthened export regulation. “On the matter of tariff wars and trade wars, China’s position remains consistent,” the official said. “If you wish to fight, we shall fight to the end; if you wish to negotiate, our door remains open.”

The escalation followed U.S. President Donald Trump’s threat to impose a 100 percent tariff on all Chinese goods — a drastic step in response to Beijing’s rare-earth export curbs and declared plans to tighten software export controls. 

While both sides continue working-level talks, Beijing sharply criticized simultaneous American threats, saying the U.S. cannot demand negotiations while wielding punitive measures.

Analysts warn that the standoff could unsettle global supply chains, especially in high-tech sectors reliant on rare earths and semiconductors. Whether this is a prelude to deeper escalation — or a posture to extract concessions — remains to be seen.