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Trump’s latest threat to enforce an extra complete levy on Chinese goods has been called a “typical example” of US double standards, as stated by the China’s leadership.

A Commerce Ministry spokesperson further commented that Beijing could implement its own undisclosed “retaliatory steps” if the White House occupant executes his warning, adding that the country was “not afraid” of a looming trade war.

On Friday, Trump responded at Beijing’s move to reinforce its policies for foreign shipments of rare earths, alleging Beijing of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the international market “hostage”.

Additionally, he vowed to cancel a planned meeting with China’s President Xi Jinping, which was arranged for a conference in South Korea before the month ends.

Trump’s comments on Friday shook financial markets, with the S&P 500 dropping over two and a half percent, marking its steepest fall since earlier this year.

His comments revived fears of a commercial dispute between the United States and China.

Earlier this year, the two sides had reached an agreement to drop significant levies on each other’s goods, which had led to concerns of trade halting between the two nations.

This left, American import duties on Chinese goods subject to an added import tax compared with the beginning of 2025, while American products entering China face a 10% tariff.

The most recent comments from China – issued by the Ministry of Commerce in the manner of formal replies to media inquiries – reflected language from the zenith of the recent trade conflict.

The remarks condemned US export restrictions on semiconductors and chips while justifying the country’s own export controls on rare earth minerals as “routine measures” to protect state interests and that of every country.

Their representative remarked that for “a long time”, the United States had “expanded the interpretation” of national security, exploited export control measures and “implemented” biased policies against Beijing.

“Resorting to trade levy ultimatums is not the proper method to deal with the Chinese government,” the official stated.

“China’s position on a tariff war has consistently been steady: we are not seeking one, but we are unafraid of one.”

Recently, China revealed it was reinforcing overseas sale regulations on rare earth minerals and other materials vital for high-technology production.

This move was regarded as a significant step, as the country processes about ninety percent of the planet’s critical minerals, which are utilized in products such as solar panels and mobile phones.

The recent comments from both governments are being seen by analysts as a method of enhancing bargaining power ahead of upcoming negotiations.

Remains uncertain whether a talks between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping, expected at a high-level meeting in the Republic of Korea later this month, will take place as planned.