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The former US president’s most recent threat to impose an further 100% tariff on items imported from China has been described as a “typical example” of US double standards, as stated by the Chinese government.

A Commerce Ministry spokesperson also stated that China could enact its own unspecified “retaliatory steps” if the American leader executes his pledge, adding that the country was “not afraid” of a potential commercial battle.

On Friday, the former president retaliated at Beijing’s move to tighten its policies for foreign shipments of rare earth minerals, alleging the Chinese leadership of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the world “under its control”.

Furthermore, he warned to cancel a planned meeting with China’s President President Xi, which was arranged for a conference in South Korea later this month.

Trump’s comments on that day rattled financial markets, with the S&P 500 share index falling by nearly three percent, marking its steepest fall since earlier this year.

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

In May, the respective governments had consented to eliminate significant levies on each other’s goods, which had led to concerns of commerce ceasing between the economic powers.

Consequently, American import duties on Chinese goods subject to an added 30% levy compared with the beginning of 2025, while items from the United States entering the country face a ten percent duty.

The most recent comments from China – issued by the Ministry of Commerce in the form of formal replies to media inquiries – echoed rhetoric from the height of the latest commercial tensions.

They criticised US export restrictions on chips and semi-conductors while defending China’s own overseas sale regulations on key elements as “routine measures” to safeguard state interests and that of the global community.

The spokesperson stated that for “an extended period”, the United States had “broadened the definition” of national security, abused export control measures and “enforced” discriminatory practices against China.

“Resorting to tariff threats is not the right way to deal with Beijing,” the spokesperson stated.

“China’s position on a tariff war has remained unchanging: we are not seeking one, but we are unafraid of one.”

Recently, China revealed it was strengthening export controls on rare earths and further resources vital for advanced tech manufacturing.

This move was regarded as a significant step, as the nation processes about the vast majority of the planet’s critical minerals, which are utilized in items such as solar panels and mobile phones.

Latest statements from the US and China are being seen by some as a method of strengthening positions ahead of forthcoming discussions.

It is unclear whether a summit between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping, scheduled at a conference in South Korea in the coming weeks, will go ahead.