As the trade war continues to escalate, China has hit back at Trump by suspending exports of rare earth minerals.

President Donald Trump on Friday threatened China with a "massive" increase in tariffs in retaliation for Beijing imposing strict controls on rare earths.

China will not allow the export of rare earth materials for use by foreign militaries under restrictions announced last week.

As the trade war continues to escalate, China has hit back at Trump by suspending exports of rare earth minerals.

Beijing last week announced sweeping controls on rare earths ahead of an expected meeting between President Donald Trump and President Xi Jinping.

China holds a near-monopoly in the processing of the elements crucial for making everything from smartphones to fighter jets.