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Donald Trump’s latest warning to impose an additional full import duty on Chinese goods has been labeled a “classic case” of US double standards, as stated by the China’s leadership.

A representative of the ministry further commented that Beijing could introduce its own undisclosed “responsive actions” if the US President follows through on his pledge, emphasizing that the country was “not afraid” of a looming trade war.

Last Friday, Donald Trump retaliated at the Chinese government’s action to reinforce its policies for exports of critical elements, charging China of “turning aggressive” and attempting to hold the international market “hostage”.

Additionally, he threatened to withdraw from a scheduled meeting with China’s President President Xi, which was expected to take place during a conference in Seoul in the coming weeks.

The former president’s remarks on that day shook financial markets, with the S&P 500 share index dropping nearly three percent, marking its biggest drop since April.

His comments revived fears of a trade war between the two economic giants.

Earlier this year, the two sides had reached an agreement to remove high import duties on each other’s goods, which had created the possibility of commerce ceasing between the two nations.

As a result, American import duties on products from China facing an added 30% levy compared with the beginning of 2025, while US goods entering the country incur a import levy.

Beijing’s recent statements – issued by the relevant government department in the manner of official answers to press queries – mirrored rhetoric from the height of the latest commercial tensions.

The remarks condemned American limits on exports on chips and semi-conductors while supporting Beijing’s restrictions on exports on rare earths as “normal actions” to protect national security and that of every country.

The official stated that for “many years”, the US had “broadened the definition” of domestic safety, abused foreign shipment regulations and “implemented” discriminatory practices against Beijing.

“Turning to” tariff threats is not the correct approach to deal with Beijing,” their representative commented.

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

The previous week, Beijing announced it was strengthening overseas sale regulations on key elements and other materials essential to high-technology production.

This move was regarded as a important measure, as the country refines about 90% of the world’s rare earths, which are employed in goods such as solar panels and smartphones.

Latest statements from the US and China are being viewed by some as a method of bolstering negotiating stances in preparation for future trade talks.

Is not yet known whether a meeting between Trump and President Xi, scheduled at a summit in the Republic of Korea in the coming weeks, will still proceed.