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Donald Trump’s latest threat to introduce an further complete levy on products from China has been called a “typical example” of US double standards, per the China’s leadership.

A representative of the ministry further commented that Beijing could introduce its own unrevealed “retaliatory steps” if the American leader follows through on his warning, adding that the country was “unafraid” of a potential trade war.

Last Friday, Donald Trump hit back at China’s decision to reinforce its policies for foreign shipments of rare earth minerals, alleging the Chinese leadership of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the world “under its control”.

Additionally, he threatened to withdraw from a scheduled talks with Beijing’s head of state Xi Jinping, which was arranged for a summit in Seoul before the month ends.

Trump’s comments on that day rattled financial markets, with the S&P 500 share index falling by over two and a half percent, marking its steepest fall since April.

His comments renewed apprehensions of a trade war between the US and China.

This past spring, the two sides had agreed to drop significant levies on each other’s imports, which had raised the prospect of trade halting between the economic powers.

Consequently, US tariffs on products from China subject to an extra thirty percent tariff compared with the beginning of 2025, while American products entering the Chinese market face a 10% tariff.

Beijing’s recent statements – released by the relevant government department in the form of formal replies to media inquiries – echoed terminology from the height of the latest commercial tensions.

The remarks condemned US export restrictions on chips and semi-conductors while supporting Beijing’s restrictions on exports on rare earth minerals as “normal actions” to protect domestic safety and that of the global community.

Their representative said that for “many years”, the America had “expanded the interpretation” of state security, misused foreign shipment regulations and “enforced” unfair treatments against Beijing.

“Resorting to import duty warnings is not the correct approach to deal with the Chinese government,” the official stated.

“The nation’s view” on a tariff war has consistently been unchanging: we are not seeking one, but we are fearless of one.”

Last week, China revealed it was reinforcing foreign shipment restrictions on rare earths and other materials essential to high-technology production.

This move was regarded as a important measure, as the state processes about 90% of the planet’s critical minerals, which are utilized in products such as renewable energy components and handheld devices.

Latest statements from both governments are being seen by observers as a method of enhancing bargaining power in preparation for upcoming negotiations.

Remains uncertain whether a summit between Trump and Xi Jinping, expected at a summit in South Korea before month’s end, will still proceed.