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Trump’s latest warning to introduce an further full import duty on Chinese goods has been called a “classic case” of US double standards, according to the Chinese government.

A official from China’s Commerce Ministry also stated that China could enact its own undisclosed “retaliatory steps” if the American leader executes his warning, emphasizing that the country was “fearless” of a potential commercial battle.

Last Friday, the former president hit back at Beijing’s move to strengthen its policies for overseas sales of critical elements, accusing Beijing of “adopting a confrontational stance” and attempting to hold the world “captive”.

Additionally, he threatened to withdraw from a scheduled meeting with Beijing’s head of state President Xi, which was expected to take place during a meeting in Seoul in the coming weeks.

The former president’s remarks on that day rattled financial markets, with the S&P 500 dropping nearly three percent, marking its steepest fall since earlier this year.

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

This past spring, the respective governments had agreed to eliminate high import duties on each other’s imports, which had led to concerns of commerce ceasing between the two nations.

Consequently, United States levies on products from China subject to an extra import tax compared with the beginning of 2025, while US goods entering the country are subject to a ten percent duty.

The most recent comments from China – issued by the Ministry of Commerce in the manner of formal replies to journalist’s questions – mirrored language from the peak of the latest commercial tensions.

The remarks condemned US export restrictions on electronic components while justifying the country’s own export controls on rare earths as “standard procedures” to safeguard national security and that of every country.

The spokesperson stated that for “a long time”, the America had “expanded the interpretation” of national security, misused export control measures and “enforced” discriminatory practices against China.

“Turning to” tariff threats is not the correct approach to engage with China,” the official said.

“The nation’s view” on a import duty dispute has consistently been consistent: we wish to avoid one, but we are fearless of one.”

Last week, China revealed it was strengthening foreign shipment restrictions on key elements and further resources essential to cutting-edge industry.

This was seen as a important measure, as the state refines about the vast majority of the world’s rare earths, which are utilized in products such as renewable energy components and smartphones.

The recent comments from both governments are being interpreted by analysts as a strategy of strengthening positions prior to future trade talks.

Remains uncertain whether a talks between Trump and Xi Jinping, expected at a conference in South Korea in the coming weeks, will take place as planned.