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Donald Trump’s newest threat to enforce an additional full import duty on items imported from China has been called a “classic case” of US double standards, as stated by the China’s leadership.

A representative of the ministry further commented that China could enact its own unspecified “responsive actions” if the American leader follows through on his pledge, adding that the country was “unafraid” of a looming trade conflict.

Last Friday, the former president retaliated at China’s decision to tighten its policies for overseas sales of rare earth minerals, alleging Beijing of “adopting a confrontational stance” and attempting to hold the global community “hostage”.

Furthermore, he warned to cancel a planned talks with Chinese leader President Xi, which was set for a summit in the Republic of Korea in the coming weeks.

Trump’s comments on Friday rattled stock exchanges, with the benchmark US stock index closing down over two and a half percent, marking its steepest fall since earlier this year.

The president’s words renewed concerns of a trade conflict between the two economic giants.

Earlier this year, the both nations had consented to eliminate high import duties on each other’s imports, which had led to concerns of trade halting between the two nations.

Consequently, United States levies on Chinese imports incurring an extra import tax compared with the beginning of 2025, while American products entering the Chinese market incur a 10% tariff.

Beijing’s recent statements – published by the Commerce Ministry in the manner of formal replies to press queries – reflected language from the peak of the ongoing trade dispute.

The remarks condemned US export restrictions on electronic components while justifying Beijing’s export controls on key elements as “standard procedures” to protect national security and that of all nations.

The official said that for “many years”, the America had “broadened the definition” of state security, misused export control measures and “enforced” biased policies against the Chinese nation.

“Using” tariff threats is not the correct approach to engage with China,” the official stated.

“China’s position on a import duty dispute has always been steady: we wish to avoid one, but we are fearless of one.”

Last week, Beijing revealed it was tightening export controls on rare earth minerals and further resources vital for high-technology production.

The action was viewed as a important measure, as the state refines about the vast majority of the global rare earth supply, which are employed in items such as renewable energy components and mobile phones.

The recent comments from Washington and Beijing are being seen by some as a means of enhancing bargaining power prior to forthcoming discussions.

It is unclear whether a meeting between Trump and Xi Jinping, expected at a high-level meeting in South Korea before month’s end, will take place as planned.