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Donald Trump’s newest warning to impose an extra 100% tariff on products from China has been described as a “prime illustration” of US double standards, according to the China’s leadership.

A representative of the ministry additionally remarked that China could enact its own undisclosed “retaliatory steps” if the White House occupant executes his threat, noting that the country was “unafraid” of a potential trade conflict.

On Friday, the former president retaliated at Beijing’s move to tighten its policies for overseas sales of critical elements, charging Beijing of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the world “hostage”.

Furthermore, he threatened to pull out of a scheduled talks with Chinese leader President Xi, which was arranged for a summit in Seoul before the month ends.

The former president’s remarks on that day rattled stock exchanges, with the S&P 500 share index falling by over two and a half percent, marking its steepest fall since April.

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

Earlier this year, the both nations had agreed to remove high import duties on each other’s imports, which had raised the prospect of bilateral trade stopping between the economic powers.

As a result, United States levies on Chinese goods incurring an added 30% levy compared with the beginning of 2025, while US goods entering the Chinese market are subject to a import levy.

Beijing’s recent statements – published by the Ministry of Commerce in the manner of formal replies to media inquiries – echoed language from the peak of the latest commercial tensions.

The remarks condemned US export restrictions on semiconductors and chips while justifying the country’s own overseas sale regulations on rare earth minerals as “normal actions” to ensure national security and that of all nations.

The official stated that for “many years”, the United States had “broadened the definition” of national security, exploited export control measures and “enforced” discriminatory practices against the Chinese nation.

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

“The nation’s view” on a trade conflict has consistently been consistent: we are not seeking one, but we are not afraid of one.”

Recently, China revealed it was strengthening overseas sale regulations on rare earth minerals and additional substances vital for cutting-edge industry.

This move was regarded as a important measure, as the nation processes about the vast majority of the planet’s critical minerals, which are employed in items such as renewable energy components and handheld devices.

The recent comments from the US and China are being seen by analysts as a means of bolstering negotiating stances in preparation for future trade talks.

Is not yet known whether a talks between the former president and China’s leader, planned at a conference in Seoul before month’s end, will go ahead.