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Trump’s latest ultimatum to enforce an extra 100% tariff on items imported from China has been called a “classic case” of US double standards, according to the Beijing administration.

A representative of the ministry further commented that the nation could implement its own unspecified “retaliatory steps” if the US President executes his threat, noting that the country was “fearless” of a potential trade conflict.

On Friday, Trump hit back at the Chinese government’s action to reinforce its policies for overseas sales of critical elements, alleging Beijing of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the international market “under its control”.

Additionally, he threatened to withdraw from a planned talks with China’s President Xi Jinping, which was arranged for a meeting in the Republic of Korea later this month.

His statements on last Friday shook stock exchanges, with the benchmark US stock index falling by over two and a half percent, marking its largest decline since last spring.

His comments revived apprehensions of a trade war between the two economic giants.

Earlier this year, the respective governments had agreed to eliminate high import duties on each other’s products, which had raised the prospect of trade halting between the two nations.

As a result, American import duties on Chinese imports subject to an extra 30% levy compared with the beginning of 2025, while American products entering the country face a 10% tariff.

The most recent comments from China – published by the relevant government department in the form of formal replies to press queries – echoed terminology from the zenith of the ongoing trade dispute.

They criticised US export restrictions on chips and semi-conductors while justifying Beijing’s restrictions on exports on rare earth minerals as “routine measures” to protect national security and that of all nations.

The official remarked that for “an extended period”, the US had “broadened the definition” of state security, abused foreign shipment regulations and “enforced” unfair treatments against the Chinese nation.

“Turning to” trade levy ultimatums is not the right way to interact with Beijing,” the spokesperson commented.

“The nation’s view” on a tariff war has always been steady: we wish to avoid one, but we are fearless of one.”

Last week, the Chinese government revealed it was tightening foreign shipment restrictions on key elements and additional substances essential to advanced tech manufacturing.

The action was viewed as a significant step, as the country processes about 90% of the planet’s critical minerals, which are utilized in goods such as renewable energy components and handheld devices.

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

It is unclear whether a summit between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping, planned at a summit in the Republic of Korea in the coming weeks, will take place as planned.