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Trump’s latest warning to enforce an further full import duty on products from China has been described as a “typical example” of American hypocrisy, as stated by the Beijing administration.

A Commerce Ministry spokesperson also stated that the nation could introduce its own undisclosed “retaliatory steps” if the American leader executes his warning, adding 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, alleging China of “turning aggressive” and attempting to hold the global community “captive”.

He also vowed to withdraw from a arranged talks with Beijing’s head of state President Xi, which was arranged for a conference in South Korea in the coming weeks.

His statements on Friday rattled stock exchanges, with the S&P 500 dropping over two and a half percent, marking its steepest fall since last spring.

The president’s words renewed fears of a commercial dispute between the United States and China.

Earlier this year, the respective governments had reached an agreement to eliminate triple-digit tariffs on each other’s goods, which had led to concerns of trade halting between the economic powers.

This left, United States levies on Chinese imports facing an extra import tax compared with the beginning of 2025, while American products entering China incur a ten percent duty.

Beijing’s recent statements – issued by the Commerce Ministry in the form of official answers to journalist’s questions – reflected rhetoric from the zenith of the latest commercial tensions.

Officials denounced US export restrictions on chips and semi-conductors while justifying China’s own export controls on key elements as “routine measures” to ensure domestic safety and that of the global community.

The spokesperson stated that for “many years”, the US had “expanded the interpretation” of state security, abused export control measures and “enforced” unfair treatments against China.

“Using” trade levy ultimatums is not the right way to interact with the Chinese government,” the spokesperson said.

“The nation’s view” on a trade conflict has remained consistent: we are not seeking one, but we are fearless of one.”

Last week, China declared it was strengthening foreign shipment restrictions on rare earth minerals and additional substances vital for high-technology production.

This was seen as a significant step, as the state handles about 90% of the global rare earth supply, which are utilized in goods such as solar panels and handheld devices.

New remarks from both governments are being viewed by some as a means of bolstering negotiating stances ahead of forthcoming discussions.

Remains uncertain whether a talks between the former president and China’s leader, expected at a conference in Seoul in the coming weeks, will go ahead.