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Trump’s newest threat to impose an extra complete levy on items imported from China has been labeled a “classic case” of US double standards, as stated by the China’s leadership.

A representative of the ministry further commented that China could enact its own unrevealed “responsive actions” if the American leader carries out his warning, emphasizing that the country was “not afraid” of a potential trade conflict.

This past Friday, Donald Trump retaliated at the Chinese government’s action to reinforce its rules for exports of rare earth minerals, alleging China of “adopting a confrontational stance” and attempting to hold the world “captive”.

Additionally, he warned to withdraw from a planned meeting with Chinese leader Xi, which was arranged for a meeting in Seoul before the month ends.

His statements on last Friday unsettled financial markets, with the benchmark US stock index closing down nearly three percent, marking its largest decline since April.

The president’s words renewed fears of a trade war between the two economic giants.

This past spring, the two sides had consented to drop significant levies on each other’s goods, which had raised the prospect of bilateral trade stopping between the two nations.

This left, US tariffs on Chinese goods subject to an extra thirty percent tariff compared with the beginning of 2025, while items from the United States entering the country incur a ten percent duty.

China’s latest remarks – published by the Ministry of Commerce in the format of formal replies to journalist’s questions – reflected language from the zenith of the latest commercial tensions.

They criticised United States controls on electronic components while defending Beijing’s restrictions on exports on rare earths as “standard procedures” to ensure domestic safety and that of the global community.

The spokesperson stated that for “a long time”, the US had “broadened the definition” of national security, misused overseas sale restrictions and “enforced” unfair treatments against the Chinese nation.

“Turning to” import duty warnings is not the correct approach to deal with the Chinese government,” the spokesperson stated.

“The nation’s view” on a import duty dispute has remained steady: we do not want one, but we are unafraid of one.”

Last week, China revealed it was tightening overseas sale regulations on rare earths and further resources critical for cutting-edge industry.

This was seen as a important measure, as the country processes about 90% of the planet’s critical minerals, which are utilized in goods such as solar panels and mobile phones.

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

It is unclear whether a meeting between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping, planned at a summit in the Republic of Korea before month’s end, will go ahead.