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The former US president’s latest threat to introduce an additional full import duty on Chinese goods has been called a “classic case” of American hypocrisy, per the Beijing administration.

A official from China’s Commerce Ministry additionally remarked that the nation could enact its own unrevealed “countermeasures” if the American leader carries out his pledge, noting that the country was “unafraid” of a possible trade conflict.

On Friday, the former president retaliated at the Chinese government’s action to tighten its rules for exports of rare earths, charging China of “adopting a confrontational stance” and attempting to hold the global community “hostage”.

Furthermore, he threatened to cancel a arranged talks with Chinese leader President Xi, which was set for a conference in South Korea later this month.

The former president’s remarks on last Friday shook financial markets, with the S&P 500 falling by nearly three percent, marking its largest decline since earlier this year.

The president’s words renewed fears of a commercial dispute between the United States and China.

This past spring, the two sides had consented to eliminate triple-digit tariffs on each other’s goods, which had raised the prospect of commerce ceasing between the two nations.

This left, United States levies on Chinese goods facing an additional thirty percent tariff compared with the beginning of 2025, while items from the United States entering China incur a import levy.

China’s latest remarks – issued by the Commerce Ministry in the manner of official answers to journalist’s questions – mirrored rhetoric from the height of the recent trade conflict.

They criticised United States controls on electronic components while defending China’s own overseas sale regulations on rare earth minerals as “routine measures” to protect national security and that of every country.

The official stated that for “many years”, the America had “overstretched the concept of national security, abused overseas sale restrictions and “implemented” discriminatory practices against China.

“Turning to” trade levy ultimatums is not the right way to engage with the Chinese government,” the spokesperson commented.

“China’s position on a tariff war has consistently been consistent: we are not seeking one, but we are unafraid of one.”

Recently, China announced it was reinforcing export controls on rare earths and further resources essential to advanced tech manufacturing.

The action was viewed as a significant step, as the nation processes about the vast majority of the planet’s critical minerals, which are utilized in items such as solar panels and handheld devices.

Latest statements from both governments are being interpreted by observers as a strategy of strengthening positions prior to future trade talks.

Is not yet known whether a meeting between Trump and China’s leader, expected at a summit in Seoul later this month, will take place as planned.