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Donald Trump’s most recent warning to introduce an further full import duty on items imported from China has been described as a “typical example” of US double standards, per the Beijing administration.

A representative of the ministry also stated that the nation could introduce its own unrevealed “retaliatory steps” if the US President executes his warning, adding that the country was “fearless” of a possible trade war.

Last Friday, the former president responded at Beijing’s move to tighten its policies for foreign shipments of rare earths, accusing Beijing of “adopting a confrontational stance” and attempting to hold the global community “hostage”.

He also warned to cancel a arranged summit with Chinese leader President Xi, which was arranged for a summit in South Korea later this month.

The former president’s remarks on last Friday shook financial markets, with the S&P 500 share index falling by over two and a half percent, marking its biggest drop since April.

The president’s words renewed fears of a trade conflict between the United States and China.

In May, the respective governments had agreed to drop high import duties on each other’s imports, which had led to concerns of commerce ceasing between the two countries.

As a result, United States levies on Chinese goods facing an additional 30% levy compared with the beginning of 2025, while items from the United States entering the country are subject to a import levy.

Beijing’s recent statements – released by the relevant government department in the format of written responses to journalist’s questions – mirrored rhetoric from the height of the ongoing trade dispute.

Officials denounced United States controls on semiconductors and chips while defending Beijing’s restrictions on exports on key elements as “standard procedures” to protect national security and that of all nations.

The official remarked that for “many years”, the US had “expanded the interpretation” of state security, exploited export control measures and “implemented” biased policies against the Chinese nation.

“Turning to” trade levy ultimatums is not the right way to engage with the Chinese government,” the spokesperson commented.

“The nation’s view” on a import duty dispute has remained steady: we are not seeking one, but we are unafraid of one.”

Last week, China revealed it was reinforcing export controls on rare earths and other materials critical for advanced tech manufacturing.

The action was viewed as a important measure, as the country handles about the vast majority of the global rare earth supply, which are employed in items such as renewable energy components and handheld devices.

The recent comments from both governments are being viewed by some as a means of enhancing bargaining power in preparation for future trade talks.

Is not yet known whether a meeting between Trump and President Xi, scheduled at a conference in South Korea in the coming weeks, will take place as planned.