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The former US president’s latest threat to impose an extra full import duty on items imported from China has been called a “classic case” of US double standards, as stated by the Chinese government.

A Commerce Ministry spokesperson further commented that the nation could introduce its own unspecified “responsive actions” if the American leader executes his threat, adding that the country was “fearless” of a looming commercial battle.

On Friday, Trump retaliated at the Chinese government’s action to reinforce its regulations for overseas sales of rare earth minerals, alleging China of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the international market “hostage”.

Furthermore, he threatened to cancel a arranged meeting with China’s President Xi Jinping, which was set for a conference in the Republic of Korea later this month.

The former president’s remarks on Friday shook financial markets, with the benchmark US stock index dropping 2.7%, marking its steepest fall since April.

His comments reignited concerns of a trade war between the United States and China.

This past spring, the respective governments had reached an agreement to drop triple-digit tariffs on each other’s goods, which had created the possibility of trade halting between the economic powers.

Consequently, United States levies on Chinese imports subject to an extra 30% levy compared with the beginning of 2025, while items from the United States entering the country incur a 10% tariff.

Beijing’s recent statements – released by the relevant government department in the format of written responses to press queries – mirrored terminology from the peak of the ongoing trade dispute.

Officials denounced United States controls on electronic components while justifying Beijing’s restrictions on exports on key elements as “normal actions” to safeguard domestic safety and that of every country.

The spokesperson remarked that for “a long time”, the America had “overstretched the concept of national security, abused foreign shipment regulations and “adopted biased policies against Beijing.

“Turning to” tariff threats is not the proper method to engage with the Chinese government,” the spokesperson stated.

“The nation’s view” on a trade conflict has always been unchanging: we wish to avoid one, but we are unafraid of one.”

Last week, China declared it was strengthening export controls on rare earths and additional substances vital for cutting-edge industry.

This move was regarded as a important measure, as the state handles about the vast majority of the global rare earth supply, which are utilized in items such as solar panels and handheld devices.

The recent comments from Washington and Beijing are being seen by some as a method of bolstering negotiating stances prior to future trade talks.

It is unclear whether a summit between Trump and Xi Jinping, expected at a high-level meeting in South Korea before month’s end, will take place as planned.