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Donald Trump’s newest ultimatum 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 also stated that China could implement its own undisclosed “responsive actions” if the American leader follows through on his threat, adding that the country was “unafraid” of a looming trade conflict.

Last Friday, the former president responded at China’s decision to reinforce its regulations for exports of rare earths, charging the Chinese leadership of “turning aggressive” and attempting to hold the world “captive”.

Additionally, he warned to pull out of a arranged summit with Chinese leader President Xi, which was arranged for a conference in South Korea before the month ends.

Trump’s comments on last Friday unsettled global markets, with the S&P 500 falling by over two and a half percent, marking its steepest fall since earlier this year.

The president’s words reignited concerns of a commercial dispute between the US and China.

In May, the respective governments had agreed to drop triple-digit tariffs on each other’s imports, which had led to concerns of commerce ceasing between the two nations.

As a result, US tariffs on Chinese goods incurring an extra thirty percent tariff compared with the beginning of 2025, while US goods entering the country are subject to a ten percent duty.

Beijing’s recent statements – released by the Ministry of Commerce in the manner of formal replies to press queries – echoed rhetoric from the height of the latest commercial tensions.

Officials denounced American limits on exports on semiconductors and chips while supporting the country’s own overseas sale regulations on key elements as “routine measures” to safeguard state interests and that of all nations.

The official said that for “a long time”, the United States had “overstretched the concept of state security, misused overseas sale restrictions and “enforced” unfair treatments against Beijing.

“Turning to” trade levy ultimatums is not the proper method to engage with China,” the official said.

“The nation’s view” on a tariff war has remained steady: we are not seeking one, but we are not afraid of one.”

Last week, Beijing revealed it was tightening export controls on rare earth minerals and further resources critical for advanced tech manufacturing.

The action was viewed as a important measure, as the state processes about 90% of the world’s rare earths, which are employed in items such as renewable energy components and handheld devices.

New remarks from Washington and Beijing are being viewed by some as a method of bolstering negotiating stances ahead of forthcoming discussions.

Is not yet known whether a talks between Donald Trump and China’s leader, planned at a summit in Seoul later this month, will go ahead.