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Donald Trump’s most recent ultimatum to enforce an further complete levy on Chinese goods has been called a “classic case” of US double standards, per the Chinese government.

A official from China’s Commerce Ministry also stated that Beijing could implement its own unspecified “responsive actions” if the US President carries out his threat, emphasizing that the country was “fearless” of a potential trade war.

This past Friday, Donald Trump hit back at Beijing’s move to reinforce its regulations for exports of critical elements, accusing China of “turning aggressive” and attempting to hold the international market “hostage”.

He also warned to cancel a scheduled summit with Chinese leader Xi, which was arranged for a summit in the Republic of Korea later this month.

Trump’s comments on Friday rattled financial markets, with the S&P 500 share index dropping 2.7%, marking its largest decline since earlier this year.

These statements renewed apprehensions of a trade war between the United States and China.

Earlier this year, the both nations had consented to eliminate triple-digit tariffs on each other’s products, which had created the possibility of commerce ceasing between the two countries.

As a result, United States levies on Chinese goods facing an extra thirty percent tariff compared with the beginning of 2025, while American products entering China are subject to a ten percent duty.

China’s latest remarks – published by the relevant government department in the format of formal replies to press queries – reflected language from the zenith of the latest commercial tensions.

The remarks condemned United States controls on semiconductors and chips while defending the country’s own restrictions on exports on rare earth minerals as “normal actions” to ensure state interests and that of every country.

The official stated that for “many years”, the America had “broadened the definition” of state security, misused export control measures and “implemented” discriminatory practices against the Chinese nation.

“Resorting to tariff threats is not the right way to deal with Beijing,” the spokesperson stated.

“Beijing’s stance” on a trade conflict has remained steady: we are not seeking one, but we are not afraid of one.”

Last week, China announced it was reinforcing export controls on rare earth minerals and additional substances vital for high-technology production.

This move was regarded as a important measure, as the country refines about the vast majority of the planet’s critical minerals, which are employed in items such as solar panels and handheld devices.

Latest statements from the US and China are being seen by analysts as a means of enhancing bargaining power prior to forthcoming discussions.

It is unclear whether a meeting between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping, scheduled at a conference in South Korea in the coming weeks, will take place as planned.