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Trump’s latest warning to impose an additional full import duty on items imported from China has been called a “classic case” of American hypocrisy, as stated by the Beijing administration.

A representative of the ministry additionally remarked that China could introduce its own undisclosed “responsive actions” if the White House occupant carries out his warning, noting that the country was “unafraid” of a potential trade conflict.

On Friday, Trump hit back at Beijing’s move to tighten its regulations for foreign shipments of critical elements, alleging the Chinese leadership of “turning aggressive” and attempting to hold the global community “under its control”.

Furthermore, he threatened to withdraw from a arranged summit with China’s President Xi Jinping, which was expected to take place during a conference in Seoul in the coming weeks.

Trump’s comments on last Friday rattled stock exchanges, with the S&P 500 share index falling by nearly three percent, marking its biggest drop since last spring.

The president’s words reignited concerns of a trade war between the US and China.

This past spring, the both nations had agreed to drop high import duties on each other’s imports, which had raised the prospect of commerce ceasing between the two countries.

Consequently, American import duties on Chinese imports facing an additional import tax compared with the beginning of 2025, while American products entering China face a 10% tariff.

The most recent comments from China – published by the relevant government department in the format of written responses to journalist’s questions – echoed terminology from the height of the ongoing trade dispute.

They criticised US export restrictions on semiconductors and chips while supporting the country’s own restrictions on exports on rare earths as “standard procedures” to safeguard national security and that of the global community.

The spokesperson stated that for “an extended period”, the US had “expanded the interpretation” of national security, exploited foreign shipment regulations and “enforced” discriminatory practices against China.

“Turning to” trade levy ultimatums is not the proper method to deal with Beijing,” the spokesperson stated.

“China’s position on a import duty dispute has remained unchanging: we are not seeking one, but we are not afraid of one.”

The previous week, the Chinese government announced it was strengthening overseas sale regulations on key elements and additional substances essential to cutting-edge industry.

The action was viewed as a significant step, as the nation handles about the vast majority of the planet’s critical minerals, which are used in items such as renewable energy components and smartphones.

The recent comments from both governments are being interpreted by some as a means of enhancing bargaining power in preparation for forthcoming discussions.

Remains uncertain whether a talks between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping, planned at a conference in the Republic of Korea later this month, will go ahead.