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The former US president’s latest ultimatum to enforce an extra full import duty on Chinese goods has been called a “typical example” of US double standards, as stated by the Beijing administration.

A official from China’s Commerce Ministry also stated that Beijing could implement its own unspecified “responsive actions” if the White House occupant carries out his threat, adding that the country was “unafraid” of a looming trade war.

Last Friday, Trump hit back at Beijing’s move to tighten its rules for foreign shipments of rare earths, charging Beijing of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the international market “hostage”.

Furthermore, he threatened to pull out of a arranged summit with Chinese leader Xi, which was set for a conference in South Korea before the month ends.

His statements on Friday shook global markets, with the S&P 500 share index dropping over two and a half percent, marking its steepest fall since last spring.

His comments revived fears of a commercial dispute between the two economic giants.

Earlier this year, the two sides had agreed to drop significant levies on each other’s imports, which had created the possibility of commerce ceasing between the two nations.

Consequently, United States levies on Chinese imports subject to an added 30% levy compared with the beginning of 2025, while US goods entering the Chinese market face a import levy.

Beijing’s recent statements – issued by the Commerce Ministry in the manner of official answers to media inquiries – echoed terminology from the height of the recent trade conflict.

Officials denounced American limits on exports on electronic components while defending China’s own export controls on rare earth minerals as “normal actions” to protect national security and that of all nations.

Their representative stated that for “an extended period”, the US had “broadened the definition” of domestic safety, misused foreign shipment regulations and “enforced” unfair treatments against Beijing.

“Turning to” trade levy ultimatums is not the proper method to interact with China,” the official said.

“Beijing’s stance” on a trade conflict has consistently been steady: we do not want one, but we are not afraid of one.”

The previous week, China revealed it was strengthening export controls on key elements and additional substances critical for high-technology production.

This was seen as a important measure, as the country processes about the vast majority of the planet’s critical minerals, which are used in items such as renewable energy components and handheld devices.

New remarks from the US and China are being viewed by observers as a means of bolstering negotiating stances prior to future trade talks.

Is not yet known whether a summit between Trump and Xi Jinping, expected at a high-level meeting in South Korea before month’s end, will still proceed.