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Trump’s most recent threat to enforce an extra full import duty on products from China has been called a “typical example” of American hypocrisy, according to the Chinese government.

A official from China’s Commerce Ministry additionally remarked that Beijing could implement its own undisclosed “countermeasures” if the US President follows through on his warning, adding that the country was “unafraid” of a looming trade war.

On Friday, Trump responded at Beijing’s move to strengthen its rules for foreign shipments of critical elements, accusing China of “adopting a confrontational stance” and attempting to hold the world “hostage”.

He also vowed to cancel a scheduled summit with China’s President President Xi, which was arranged for a summit in Seoul before the month ends.

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

The president’s words renewed fears of a trade conflict between the two economic giants.

Earlier this year, the respective governments had reached an agreement to drop high import duties on each other’s products, which had raised the prospect of commerce ceasing between the economic powers.

Consequently, United States levies on products from China subject to an additional import tax compared with the beginning of 2025, while US goods entering China incur a import levy.

The most recent comments from China – published by the relevant government department in the format of formal replies to journalist’s questions – reflected terminology from the zenith of the recent trade conflict.

The remarks condemned American limits on exports on chips and semi-conductors while defending Beijing’s overseas sale regulations on rare earths as “normal actions” to ensure domestic safety and that of the global community.

The spokesperson remarked that for “many years”, the United States had “broadened the definition” of state security, misused export control measures and “implemented” discriminatory practices against Beijing.

“Using” tariff threats is not the proper method to engage with Beijing,” the official commented.

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

Recently, China announced it was tightening foreign shipment restrictions on key elements and other materials essential to advanced tech manufacturing.

The action was viewed as a significant step, as the country processes about ninety percent of the planet’s critical minerals, which are used in products such as photovoltaic modules and handheld devices.

New remarks from the US and China are being viewed by observers as a means of strengthening positions prior to future trade talks.

Is not yet known whether a meeting between the former president and Xi Jinping, expected at a high-level meeting in Seoul before month’s end, will take place as planned.