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The former US president’s latest warning to impose an extra full import duty on items imported from China has been called a “classic case” of US double standards, as stated by the Chinese government.

A official from China’s Commerce Ministry also stated that the nation could enact its own undisclosed “retaliatory steps” if the American leader carries out his warning, noting that the country was “fearless” of a potential trade conflict.

Last Friday, Trump responded at China’s decision to reinforce its policies for exports of rare earth minerals, alleging China of “turning aggressive” and attempting to hold the international market “captive”.

He also threatened to cancel a planned talks with China’s President President Xi, which was arranged for a meeting in the Republic of Korea later this month.

The former president’s remarks on that day rattled global markets, with the S&P 500 closing down nearly three percent, marking its largest decline since April.

The president’s words revived fears of a trade conflict between the two economic giants.

This past spring, the both nations had agreed to drop significant levies on each other’s goods, which had led to concerns of trade halting between the economic powers.

As a result, United States levies on Chinese goods subject to an extra thirty percent tariff compared with the beginning of 2025, while US goods entering China incur a ten percent duty.

Beijing’s recent statements – released by the relevant government department in the manner of written responses to journalist’s questions – reflected language from the peak of the recent trade conflict.

They criticised US export restrictions on electronic components while justifying China’s own overseas sale regulations on key elements as “standard procedures” to safeguard state interests and that of every country.

Their representative stated that for “many years”, the United States had “expanded the interpretation” of domestic safety, misused export control measures and “enforced” discriminatory practices against Beijing.

“Resorting to import duty warnings is not the proper method to engage with China,” the official commented.

“The nation’s view” on a import duty dispute has always been unchanging: we are not seeking one, but we are fearless of one.”

Recently, Beijing revealed it was strengthening foreign shipment restrictions on rare earth minerals and other materials vital for cutting-edge industry.

This was seen as a important measure, as the nation processes about 90% of the global rare earth supply, which are used in items such as renewable energy components and handheld devices.

Latest statements from Washington and Beijing are being interpreted by analysts as a strategy of bolstering negotiating stances in preparation for upcoming negotiations.

Remains uncertain whether a talks between the former president and China’s leader, expected at a summit in South Korea before month’s end, will still proceed.