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The former US president’s most recent threat to introduce an further 100% tariff on products from China has been described as a “classic case” of US double standards, as stated by the Beijing administration.

A representative of the ministry also stated that the nation could enact its own undisclosed “responsive actions” if the White House occupant follows through on his threat, adding that the country was “fearless” of a possible commercial battle.

On Friday, Trump retaliated at Beijing’s move to reinforce its rules for foreign shipments of rare earth minerals, charging China of “turning aggressive” and attempting to hold the global community “captive”.

Furthermore, he vowed to cancel a arranged summit with China’s President Xi, which was set for a summit in the Republic of Korea before the month ends.

His statements on Friday unsettled financial markets, with the S&P 500 dropping 2.7%, marking its steepest fall since last spring.

The president’s words revived concerns of a trade war between the US and China.

Earlier this year, the both nations had reached an agreement to drop triple-digit tariffs on each other’s products, which had raised the prospect of commerce ceasing between the two nations.

As a result, United States levies on products from China incurring an extra import tax compared with the beginning of 2025, while items from the United States entering China are subject to a import levy.

Beijing’s recent statements – published by the relevant government department in the manner of written responses to journalist’s questions – echoed terminology from the zenith of the ongoing trade dispute.

Officials denounced US export restrictions on chips and semi-conductors while supporting Beijing’s restrictions on exports on rare earths as “standard procedures” to protect state interests and that of the global community.

The official said that for “a long time”, the United States had “overstretched the concept of national security, abused overseas sale restrictions and “adopted unfair treatments against China.

“Resorting to trade levy ultimatums is not the correct approach to engage with the Chinese government,” the official commented.

“Beijing’s stance” on a import duty dispute has remained consistent: we do not want one, but we are not afraid of one.”

The previous week, Beijing announced it was strengthening overseas sale regulations on rare earth minerals and other materials vital for cutting-edge industry.

This move was regarded as a important measure, as the country processes about the vast majority of the global rare earth supply, which are used in goods such as renewable energy components and mobile phones.

Latest statements from both governments are being interpreted by some as a strategy of enhancing bargaining power in preparation for future trade talks.

Is not yet known whether a summit between Donald Trump and China’s leader, expected at a conference in South Korea in the coming weeks, will go ahead.