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Trump’s latest warning to enforce an further full import duty on items imported from China has been called a “classic case” of US double standards, as stated by the China’s leadership.

A official from China’s Commerce Ministry also stated that the nation could implement its own unspecified “retaliatory steps” if the American leader executes his warning, adding that the country was “fearless” of a possible trade conflict.

This past Friday, the former president retaliated at Beijing’s move to tighten its policies for foreign shipments of rare earths, alleging the Chinese leadership of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the global community “hostage”.

Additionally, he vowed to cancel a scheduled talks with Beijing’s head of state President Xi, which was set for a conference in Seoul later this month.

His statements on last Friday shook global markets, with the benchmark US stock index falling by nearly three percent, marking its largest decline since last spring.

His comments renewed fears of a trade war between the United States and China.

This past spring, the two sides had reached an agreement to eliminate significant levies on each other’s products, which had led to concerns of trade halting between the two countries.

Consequently, United States levies on products from China facing an extra import tax compared with the beginning of 2025, while US goods entering China incur a 10% tariff.

Beijing’s recent statements – published by the Ministry of Commerce in the manner of formal replies to journalist’s questions – echoed rhetoric from the height of the latest commercial tensions.

The remarks condemned US export restrictions on semiconductors and chips while supporting the country’s own overseas sale regulations on rare earth minerals as “normal actions” to ensure domestic safety and that of the global community.

The spokesperson said that for “a long time”, the United States had “overstretched the concept of domestic safety, exploited overseas sale restrictions and “adopted discriminatory practices against the Chinese nation.

“Turning to” trade levy ultimatums is not the right way to deal with the Chinese government,” the official said.

“Beijing’s stance” on a tariff war has always been unchanging: we are not seeking one, but we are fearless of one.”

Last week, Beijing announced it was tightening foreign shipment restrictions on key elements and additional substances vital for cutting-edge industry.

This move was regarded as a important measure, as the nation refines about 90% of the planet’s critical minerals, which are used in products such as photovoltaic modules and smartphones.

Latest statements from the US and China are being viewed by analysts as a strategy of strengthening positions ahead of future trade talks.

It is unclear whether a talks between Trump and President Xi, expected at a high-level meeting in Seoul later this month, will go ahead.