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Trump’s most recent threat to introduce an further full import duty on items imported from China has been called a “classic case” of United States’ contradictory behavior, according to the Chinese government.

A official from China’s Commerce Ministry additionally remarked that Beijing could implement its own unspecified “responsive actions” if the White House occupant executes his warning, noting that the country was “not afraid” of a potential trade war.

Last Friday, Donald Trump hit back at China’s decision to reinforce its rules for exports of rare earths, accusing Beijing of “turning aggressive” and attempting to hold the world “captive”.

Furthermore, he threatened to cancel a arranged summit with China’s President Xi Jinping, which was set for a meeting in Seoul in the coming weeks.

Trump’s comments on last Friday shook stock exchanges, with the S&P 500 share index closing down over two and a half percent, marking its biggest drop since last spring.

The president’s words reignited apprehensions of a commercial dispute between the two economic giants.

Earlier this year, the both nations had consented to remove high import duties on each other’s goods, which had created the possibility of commerce ceasing between the two countries.

Consequently, United States levies on Chinese goods subject to an additional import tax compared with the beginning of 2025, while American products entering the country are subject to a import levy.

Beijing’s recent statements – released by the Commerce Ministry in the format of official answers to journalist’s questions – mirrored rhetoric from the peak of the ongoing trade dispute.

They criticised US export restrictions on chips and semi-conductors while defending China’s own restrictions on exports on key elements as “standard procedures” to safeguard state interests and that of every country.

The spokesperson stated that for “a long time”, the United States had “broadened the definition” of domestic safety, misused overseas sale restrictions and “enforced” discriminatory practices against China.

“Turning to” trade levy ultimatums is not the proper method to interact with the Chinese government,” the spokesperson stated.

“The nation’s view” on a trade conflict has always been consistent: we wish to avoid one, but we are not afraid of one.”

Last week, Beijing announced it was strengthening export controls on rare earth minerals and additional substances essential to high-technology production.

This move was regarded as a significant step, as the nation processes about the vast majority of the global rare earth supply, which are employed in items such as solar panels and mobile phones.

The recent comments from the US and China are being viewed by some as a means of strengthening positions ahead of upcoming negotiations.

Remains uncertain whether a meeting between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping, expected at a summit in South Korea in the coming weeks, will go ahead.