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The former US president’s newest warning to introduce an additional full import duty on items imported from China has been labeled a “prime illustration” of American hypocrisy, as stated by the Beijing administration.

A representative of the ministry additionally remarked that Beijing could introduce its own unspecified “countermeasures” if the US President carries out his warning, adding that the country was “unafraid” of a possible trade conflict.

On Friday, Trump retaliated at Beijing’s move to tighten its policies for exports of rare earth minerals, alleging China of “turning aggressive” and attempting to hold the global community “under its control”.

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

Trump’s comments on Friday shook financial markets, with the S&P 500 share index falling by over two and a half percent, marking its largest decline since last spring.

These statements reignited fears of a trade conflict between the two economic giants.

This past spring, the two sides had agreed to drop triple-digit tariffs on each other’s products, which had raised the prospect of trade halting between the economic powers.

Consequently, United States levies on products from China facing an extra 30% levy compared with the beginning of 2025, while American products entering the country incur a import levy.

The most recent comments from China – issued by the relevant government department in the form of official answers to journalist’s questions – echoed language from the peak of the recent trade conflict.

Officials denounced US export restrictions on electronic components while supporting Beijing’s export controls on key elements as “routine measures” to ensure national security and that of every country.

The spokesperson stated that for “a long time”, the US had “overstretched the concept of state security, exploited overseas sale restrictions and “enforced” unfair treatments against China.

“Using” import duty warnings is not the correct approach to deal with Beijing,” their representative stated.

“Beijing’s stance” on a tariff war has consistently been consistent: we do not want one, but we are not afraid of one.”

Last week, China announced it was tightening overseas sale regulations on key elements and other materials essential to cutting-edge industry.

This move was regarded as a important measure, as the state processes about ninety percent of the world’s rare earths, which are utilized in items such as solar panels and mobile phones.

Latest statements from both governments are being interpreted by some as a strategy of strengthening positions in preparation for forthcoming discussions.

It is unclear whether a meeting between Trump and President Xi, expected at a summit in South Korea before month’s end, will go ahead.