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Trump’s newest threat to impose an additional full import duty on Chinese goods has been described as a “typical example” of US double standards, as stated by the Beijing administration.

A Commerce Ministry spokesperson additionally remarked that the nation could implement its own unspecified “responsive actions” if the American leader follows through on his threat, adding that the country was “fearless” of a looming commercial battle.

Last Friday, the former president hit back at the Chinese government’s action to strengthen its regulations for overseas sales of rare earth minerals, alleging the Chinese leadership of “turning aggressive” and attempting to hold the international market “under its control”.

He also threatened to withdraw from a planned talks with China’s President President Xi, which was arranged for a conference in South Korea later this month.

Trump’s comments on last Friday unsettled global markets, with the S&P 500 share index closing down over two and a half percent, marking its steepest fall since earlier this year.

His comments revived fears of a trade conflict between the US and China.

Earlier this year, the two sides had consented to drop high import duties on each other’s imports, which had raised the prospect of commerce ceasing between the economic powers.

Consequently, United States levies on products from China facing an extra thirty percent tariff compared with the beginning of 2025, while items from the United States entering China face a import levy.

The most recent comments from China – issued by the relevant government department in the format of formal replies to journalist’s questions – echoed terminology from the height of the ongoing trade dispute.

They criticised American limits on exports on electronic components while supporting the country’s own overseas sale regulations on key elements as “routine measures” to safeguard domestic safety and that of every country.

The official remarked that for “many years”, the United States had “overstretched the concept of state security, misused overseas sale restrictions and “enforced” biased policies against the Chinese nation.

“Using” trade levy ultimatums is not the right way to engage with Beijing,” the official commented.

“China’s position on a tariff war has remained consistent: we do not want one, but we are fearless of one.”

Recently, the Chinese government declared it was tightening foreign shipment restrictions on key elements and additional substances vital for cutting-edge industry.

This was seen as a important measure, as the nation handles about 90% of the global rare earth supply, which are utilized in goods such as renewable energy components and handheld devices.

Latest statements from both governments are being interpreted by analysts as a strategy of bolstering negotiating stances in preparation for forthcoming discussions.

It is unclear whether a talks between the former president and President Xi, expected at a summit in Seoul in the coming weeks, will take place as planned.