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The former US president’s most recent ultimatum to impose an additional 100% tariff on Chinese goods has been called a “typical example” of US double standards, per the China’s leadership.

A official from China’s Commerce Ministry also stated that the nation could enact its own undisclosed “countermeasures” if the White House occupant executes his warning, adding that the country was “not afraid” of a possible trade conflict.

This past Friday, Donald Trump responded at Beijing’s move to reinforce its regulations for exports of critical elements, accusing China of “adopting a confrontational stance” and attempting to hold the global community “hostage”.

Additionally, he warned to pull out of a planned meeting with Beijing’s head of state President Xi, which was set for a summit in Seoul in the coming weeks.

His statements on Friday unsettled global markets, with the benchmark US stock index dropping over two and a half percent, marking its biggest drop since last spring.

His comments renewed apprehensions of a trade conflict between the two economic giants.

This past spring, the both nations had consented to eliminate significant levies on each other’s goods, which had led to concerns of commerce ceasing between the two nations.

This left, American import duties on Chinese goods subject to an additional 30% levy compared with the beginning of 2025, while items from the United States entering the Chinese market incur a ten percent duty.

China’s latest remarks – released by the Commerce Ministry in the manner of formal replies to press queries – mirrored language from the height of the recent trade conflict.

They criticised United States controls on electronic components while supporting the country’s own restrictions on exports on rare earth minerals as “normal actions” to safeguard national security and that of the global community.

Their representative stated that for “an extended period”, the America had “broadened the definition” of state security, exploited export control measures and “implemented” unfair treatments against Beijing.

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

“The nation’s view” on a tariff war has always been consistent: we are not seeking one, but we are not afraid of one.”

Last week, the Chinese government revealed it was reinforcing export controls on key elements and further resources essential to advanced tech manufacturing.

This was seen as a key move, as the nation processes about the vast majority of the planet’s critical minerals, which are utilized in items such as photovoltaic modules and handheld devices.

Latest statements from Washington and Beijing are being viewed by observers as a method of enhancing bargaining power ahead of future trade talks.

It is unclear whether a meeting between Trump and China’s leader, expected at a summit in Seoul before month’s end, will still proceed.