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Trump’s latest threat to impose an further full import duty on items imported from China has been labeled a “prime illustration” of US double standards, per the Chinese government.

A representative of the ministry further commented that the nation could implement its own unspecified “retaliatory steps” if the American leader carries out his threat, noting that the country was “fearless” of a potential trade conflict.

Last Friday, the former president retaliated at China’s decision to strengthen its regulations for foreign shipments of critical elements, charging Beijing of “adopting a confrontational stance” and attempting to hold the global community “hostage”.

He also threatened to withdraw from a planned summit with Beijing’s head of state Xi Jinping, which was set for a summit in Seoul before the month ends.

The former president’s remarks on last Friday shook stock exchanges, with the benchmark US stock index falling by 2.7%, marking its largest decline since earlier this year.

These statements reignited concerns of a commercial dispute between the two economic giants.

Earlier this year, the two sides had reached an agreement to remove triple-digit tariffs on each other’s goods, which had created the possibility of commerce ceasing between the economic powers.

As a result, United States levies on Chinese imports facing an added import tax compared with the beginning of 2025, while American products entering the country are subject to a import levy.

Beijing’s recent statements – published by the relevant government department in the format of formal replies to press queries – reflected language from the peak of the latest commercial tensions.

The remarks condemned US export restrictions on chips and semi-conductors while justifying the country’s own restrictions on exports on key elements as “standard procedures” to safeguard national security and that of every country.

The spokesperson remarked that for “many years”, the US had “broadened the definition” of state security, abused overseas sale restrictions and “implemented” discriminatory practices against Beijing.

“Resorting to import duty warnings is not the right way to engage with Beijing,” their representative commented.

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

Last week, China declared it was strengthening export controls on key elements and further resources essential to high-technology production.

This move was regarded as a significant step, as the country handles about ninety percent of the global rare earth supply, which are utilized in items such as photovoltaic modules and handheld devices.

Latest statements from both governments are being interpreted by some as a strategy of bolstering negotiating stances ahead of forthcoming discussions.

It is unclear whether a summit between Trump and Xi Jinping, planned at a conference in the Republic of Korea in the coming weeks, will still proceed.