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The former US president’s most recent ultimatum to impose an additional complete levy on Chinese goods has been called a “classic case” of US double standards, as stated by the Chinese government.

A Commerce Ministry spokesperson also stated that the nation could implement its own unspecified “retaliatory steps” if the American leader carries out his warning, noting that the country was “not afraid” of a possible trade conflict.

This past Friday, Trump retaliated at the Chinese government’s action to strengthen its policies for exports of rare earth minerals, alleging Beijing of “turning aggressive” and attempting to hold the world “under its control”.

Additionally, he vowed to withdraw from a planned talks with Beijing’s head of state Xi Jinping, which was arranged for a meeting in the Republic of Korea before the month ends.

The former president’s remarks on last Friday shook stock exchanges, with the S&P 500 closing down nearly three percent, marking its biggest drop since April.

These statements renewed concerns of a trade conflict between the United States and China.

Earlier this year, the two sides had reached an agreement to eliminate high import duties on each other’s imports, which had raised the prospect of commerce ceasing between the economic powers.

This left, United States levies on Chinese imports facing an additional 30% levy compared with the beginning of 2025, while items from the United States entering the country incur a 10% tariff.

China’s latest remarks – published by the Commerce Ministry in the format of written responses to journalist’s questions – echoed terminology from the peak of the ongoing trade dispute.

The remarks condemned US export restrictions on electronic components while justifying China’s own overseas sale regulations on rare earths as “normal actions” to protect domestic safety and that of every country.

The spokesperson said that for “a long time”, the America had “broadened the definition” of state security, exploited export control measures and “adopted discriminatory practices against the Chinese nation.

“Using” trade levy ultimatums is not the proper method to interact with Beijing,” the official said.

“The nation’s view” on a tariff war has consistently been consistent: we are not seeking one, but we are unafraid of one.”

Recently, the Chinese government declared it was tightening foreign shipment restrictions on rare earth minerals and other materials essential to cutting-edge industry.

This move was regarded as a significant step, as the country processes about 90% of the world’s rare earths, which are employed in goods such as photovoltaic modules and smartphones.

New remarks from the US and China are being seen by analysts as a method of bolstering negotiating stances prior to future trade talks.

Remains uncertain whether a talks between the former president and Xi Jinping, scheduled at a summit in the Republic of Korea in the coming weeks, will still proceed.