🔗 Share this article

The former US president’s most recent ultimatum to introduce an extra 100% tariff on items imported from China has been called a “classic case” of American hypocrisy, per the Chinese government.

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

This past Friday, the former president hit back at China’s decision to tighten its rules for exports of rare earths, accusing China of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the international market “under its control”.

Furthermore, he warned to cancel a arranged summit with Beijing’s head of state Xi Jinping, which was set for a summit in the Republic of Korea before the month ends.

The former president’s remarks on Friday rattled stock exchanges, with the S&P 500 closing down over two and a half percent, marking its largest decline since earlier this year.

These statements reignited concerns of a trade war between the United States and China.

In May, the both nations had agreed to eliminate high import duties on each other’s products, which had led to concerns of bilateral trade stopping between the economic powers.

Consequently, US tariffs on Chinese imports incurring an added import tax compared with the beginning of 2025, while items from the United States entering China are subject to a 10% tariff.

Beijing’s recent statements – published by the relevant government department in the manner of formal replies to journalist’s questions – reflected rhetoric from the zenith of the recent trade conflict.

They criticised US export restrictions on semiconductors and chips while justifying China’s own overseas sale regulations on rare earths as “standard procedures” to safeguard domestic safety and that of the global community.

The official remarked that for “a long time”, the United States had “expanded the interpretation” of domestic safety, exploited export control measures and “enforced” discriminatory practices against China.

“Using” import duty warnings is not the proper method to engage with China,” their representative said.

“Beijing’s stance” on a trade conflict has remained steady: we do not want one, but we are fearless of one.”

Last week, the Chinese government revealed it was reinforcing foreign shipment restrictions on rare earths and other materials vital for advanced tech manufacturing.

This was seen as a important measure, as the nation handles about the vast majority of the planet’s critical minerals, which are utilized in products such as solar panels and smartphones.

The recent comments from the US and China are being viewed by analysts as a means of bolstering negotiating stances ahead of forthcoming discussions.

Remains uncertain whether a summit between Donald Trump and China’s leader, scheduled at a summit in Seoul before month’s end, will take place as planned.