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Trump’s latest warning to enforce an extra full import duty on products from China has been described as a “typical example” of American hypocrisy, as stated by the Chinese government.

A Commerce Ministry spokesperson also stated that the nation could introduce its own unspecified “responsive actions” if the White House occupant carries out his threat, noting that the country was “fearless” of a potential trade conflict.

This past Friday, Donald Trump retaliated at China’s decision to strengthen its policies for overseas sales of rare earths, alleging China of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the international market “under its control”.

Additionally, he warned to withdraw from a arranged talks with China’s President Xi, which was arranged for a summit in Seoul before the month ends.

The former president’s remarks on last Friday shook financial markets, with the benchmark US stock index dropping 2.7%, marking its largest decline since last spring.

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

Earlier this year, the respective governments had reached an agreement to eliminate high import duties on each other’s goods, which had raised the prospect of bilateral trade stopping between the two nations.

This left, American import duties on Chinese imports incurring an additional import tax compared with the beginning of 2025, while US goods entering China are subject to a 10% tariff.

China’s latest remarks – published by the Ministry of Commerce in the form of written responses to press queries – echoed language from the zenith of the ongoing trade dispute.

The remarks condemned American limits on exports on chips and semi-conductors while supporting China’s own export controls on key elements as “standard procedures” to ensure state interests and that of all nations.

The official remarked that for “a long time”, the US had “expanded the interpretation” of domestic safety, abused foreign shipment regulations and “implemented” unfair treatments against Beijing.

“Using” tariff threats is not the proper method to deal with Beijing,” their representative said.

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

Last week, China revealed it was strengthening foreign shipment restrictions on rare earth minerals and further resources vital for cutting-edge industry.

The action was viewed as a important measure, as the state handles about the vast majority of the world’s rare earths, which are employed in items such as renewable energy components and smartphones.

The recent comments from both governments are being seen by observers as a means of bolstering negotiating stances prior to future trade talks.

Remains uncertain whether a summit between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping, scheduled at a summit in Seoul in the coming weeks, will take place as planned.