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Donald Trump’s newest ultimatum to enforce an further full import duty on products from China has been called a “typical example” of US double standards, as stated by the China’s leadership.

A official from China’s Commerce Ministry also stated that Beijing could enact its own unspecified “countermeasures” if the White House occupant follows through on his threat, emphasizing that the country was “unafraid” of a looming trade conflict.

On Friday, Trump hit back at Beijing’s move to tighten its regulations for exports of critical elements, accusing China of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the world “hostage”.

Additionally, he warned to cancel a arranged meeting with Beijing’s head of state President Xi, which was arranged for a meeting in South Korea before the month ends.

His statements on that day shook global markets, with the S&P 500 falling by 2.7%, marking its steepest fall since last spring.

His comments revived apprehensions of a trade war between the US and China.

Earlier this year, the respective governments had consented to remove high import duties on each other’s imports, which had raised the prospect of commerce ceasing between the two countries.

As a result, US tariffs on products from China 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.

China’s latest remarks – issued by the Commerce Ministry in the form of written responses to media inquiries – echoed language from the height of the latest commercial tensions.

The remarks condemned US export restrictions on electronic components while justifying China’s own restrictions on exports on rare earth minerals as “standard procedures” to ensure state interests and that of the global community.

The official stated that for “a long time”, the America had “broadened the definition” of domestic safety, misused foreign shipment regulations and “implemented” unfair treatments against Beijing.

“Turning to” tariff threats is not the right way to interact with China,” their representative stated.

“The nation’s view” on a tariff war has remained unchanging: we do not want one, but we are fearless of one.”

Recently, the Chinese government revealed it was strengthening overseas sale regulations on rare earth minerals and other materials critical for advanced tech manufacturing.

This move was regarded as a important measure, as the state handles about ninety percent of the world’s rare earths, which are used in items such as renewable energy components and mobile phones.

New remarks from Washington and Beijing are being interpreted by observers as a means of bolstering negotiating stances in preparation for future trade talks.

Is not yet known whether a summit between the former president and President Xi, expected at a high-level meeting in Seoul in the coming weeks, will go ahead.