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Trump’s most recent ultimatum to introduce an further full import duty on products from China has been described as a “classic case” of American hypocrisy, as stated by the Chinese government.

A representative of the ministry additionally remarked that China could implement its own undisclosed “responsive actions” if the White House occupant executes his pledge, emphasizing that the country was “fearless” of a potential commercial battle.

On Friday, Donald Trump retaliated at the Chinese government’s action to reinforce its policies for exports of rare earths, accusing China of “adopting a confrontational stance” and attempting to hold the international market “captive”.

Additionally, he threatened to cancel a scheduled meeting with China’s President President Xi, which was expected to take place during a meeting in Seoul before the month ends.

The former president’s remarks on last Friday shook global markets, with the S&P 500 falling by 2.7%, marking its biggest drop since April.

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

In May, the two sides had consented to eliminate high import duties on each other’s products, which had led to concerns of bilateral trade stopping between the economic powers.

As a result, American import duties on Chinese imports facing an extra import tax compared with the year’s onset, while items from the United States entering the country face a ten percent duty.

Beijing’s recent statements – released by the Ministry of Commerce in the format of official answers to media inquiries – echoed terminology from the zenith of the recent trade conflict.

The remarks condemned US export restrictions on electronic components while defending China’s own export controls on rare earths as “normal actions” to ensure national security and that of every country.

Their representative stated that for “a long time”, the United States had “broadened the definition” of state security, misused overseas sale restrictions and “enforced” discriminatory practices against China.

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

“The nation’s view” on a import duty dispute has remained steady: we do not want one, but we are fearless of one.”

Last week, Beijing declared it was reinforcing foreign shipment restrictions on rare earths and further resources essential to high-technology production.

This was seen as a important measure, as the state processes about 90% of the global rare earth supply, which are used in items such as photovoltaic modules and mobile phones.

Latest statements from Washington and Beijing are being interpreted by observers as a strategy of strengthening positions in preparation for upcoming negotiations.

It is unclear whether a talks between Donald Trump and China’s leader, scheduled at a summit in the Republic of Korea before month’s end, will take place as planned.