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

A representative of the ministry further commented that China could implement its own undisclosed “retaliatory steps” if the American leader follows through on his threat, noting that the country was “not afraid” of a possible trade conflict.

Last Friday, Donald Trump retaliated at Beijing’s move to tighten its regulations for foreign shipments of critical elements, charging the Chinese leadership of “adopting a confrontational stance” and attempting to hold the world “under its control”.

He also warned to cancel a planned meeting with Beijing’s head of state Xi, which was expected to take place during 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 closing down nearly three percent, marking its largest decline since last spring.

These statements reignited fears of a trade conflict between the US and China.

This past spring, the two sides had reached an agreement to remove triple-digit tariffs on each other’s goods, which had raised the prospect of trade halting between the economic powers.

Consequently, US tariffs on Chinese goods incurring an additional 30% levy compared with the beginning of 2025, while American products entering the country are subject to a 10% tariff.

China’s latest remarks – released by the Commerce Ministry in the manner of written responses to journalist’s questions – echoed terminology from the zenith of the recent trade conflict.

They criticised United States controls on semiconductors and chips while justifying the country’s own export controls on rare earth minerals as “standard procedures” to safeguard state interests and that of the global community.

The spokesperson said that for “an extended period”, the United States had “overstretched the concept of national security, abused export control measures and “adopted unfair treatments against China.

“Turning to” tariff threats is not the correct approach to deal with China,” the spokesperson commented.

“China’s position on a tariff war has always been unchanging: we do not want one, but we are fearless of one.”

The previous week, Beijing revealed it was tightening export controls on key elements and further resources essential to advanced tech manufacturing.

This was seen as a key move, as the state handles about ninety percent of the world’s rare earths, which are employed in items such as renewable energy components and handheld devices.

New remarks from the US and China are being viewed by some as a method of strengthening positions ahead of future trade talks.

Remains uncertain whether a talks between Trump and China’s leader, scheduled at a summit in the Republic of Korea later this month, will still proceed.