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The former US president’s newest ultimatum to enforce an extra complete levy on Chinese goods has been labeled a “prime illustration” of US double standards, as stated by the China’s leadership.

A Commerce Ministry spokesperson additionally remarked that Beijing could introduce its own unspecified “responsive actions” if the US President executes his pledge, adding that the country was “unafraid” of a looming trade war.

Last Friday, Trump responded at China’s decision to tighten its policies for overseas sales of rare earths, charging the Chinese leadership of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the world “under its control”.

He also warned to cancel a arranged talks with China’s President President Xi, which was expected to take place during a conference in South Korea in the coming weeks.

His statements on last Friday unsettled financial markets, with the S&P 500 share index closing down nearly three percent, marking its largest decline since earlier this year.

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

In May, the two sides had agreed to remove triple-digit tariffs on each other’s goods, which had created the possibility of commerce ceasing between the two nations.

This left, US tariffs on products from China incurring an added thirty percent tariff compared with the beginning of 2025, while US goods entering the country are subject to a ten percent duty.

The most recent comments from China – issued by the Commerce Ministry in the form of written responses to journalist’s questions – reflected language from the zenith of the latest commercial tensions.

The remarks condemned United States controls on semiconductors and chips while defending China’s own export controls on rare earths as “routine measures” to protect domestic safety and that of the global community.

The official stated that for “a long time”, the United States had “broadened the definition” of national security, misused overseas sale restrictions and “adopted unfair treatments against the Chinese nation.

“Using” tariff threats is not the proper method to deal with China,” the spokesperson stated.

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

Recently, the Chinese government revealed it was strengthening export controls on rare earth minerals and other materials vital for advanced tech manufacturing.

The action was viewed as a significant step, as the nation refines about ninety percent of the planet’s critical minerals, which are used in items such as solar panels and handheld devices.

The recent comments from the US and China are being interpreted by some as a method of strengthening positions in preparation for future trade talks.

Is not yet known whether a summit 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.