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Trump’s latest threat to enforce an further 100% tariff on products from China has been described as a “typical example” of US double standards, as stated by the Beijing administration.

A Commerce Ministry spokesperson additionally remarked that China could enact its own unspecified “responsive actions” if the White House occupant carries out his warning, adding that the country was “not afraid” of a possible trade war.

This past Friday, Trump responded at China’s decision to tighten its rules for overseas sales of rare earth minerals, alleging China of “adopting a confrontational stance” and attempting to hold the international market “hostage”.

Additionally, he threatened to cancel a arranged talks with China’s President Xi Jinping, which was arranged for a conference in South Korea before the month ends.

The former president’s remarks on that day shook stock exchanges, with the S&P 500 share index dropping 2.7%, marking its largest decline since earlier this year.

The president’s words renewed apprehensions of a trade conflict between the United States and China.

Earlier this year, the both nations had consented to drop significant levies on each other’s imports, which had created the possibility of trade halting between the two countries.

This left, United States levies on Chinese goods subject to an added import tax compared with the beginning of 2025, while American products entering the country face a ten percent duty.

Beijing’s recent statements – issued by the Commerce Ministry in the manner of written responses to press queries – mirrored terminology from the peak of the recent trade conflict.

Officials denounced US export restrictions on electronic components while defending the country’s own restrictions on exports on rare earths as “routine measures” to safeguard state interests and that of all nations.

The spokesperson said that for “a long time”, the US had “broadened the definition” of domestic safety, exploited export control measures and “implemented” biased policies against Beijing.

“Using” import duty warnings is not the proper method to engage with the Chinese government,” the official commented.

“The nation’s view” on a trade conflict has always been consistent: we do not want one, but we are unafraid of one.”

The previous week, the Chinese government announced it was reinforcing foreign shipment restrictions on rare earths and further resources vital for high-technology production.

This was seen as a key move, as the state refines about ninety percent of the planet’s critical minerals, which are utilized in goods such as photovoltaic modules and smartphones.

Latest statements from the US and China are being seen by some as a method of enhancing bargaining power ahead of future trade talks.

Remains uncertain whether a summit between Donald Trump and China’s leader, expected at a summit in the Republic of Korea in the coming weeks, will still proceed.