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The former US president’s most recent threat to impose an extra complete levy on Chinese goods has been labeled a “typical example” of US double standards, according to the Chinese government.

A Commerce Ministry spokesperson also stated that Beijing could introduce its own undisclosed “retaliatory steps” if the US President follows through on his threat, noting that the country was “not afraid” of a potential trade conflict.

On Friday, the former president retaliated at the Chinese government’s action to tighten its policies for foreign shipments of critical elements, alleging China of “adopting a confrontational stance” and attempting to hold the global community “hostage”.

Additionally, he warned to cancel a planned talks with Beijing’s head of state Xi Jinping, which was expected to take place during a summit in the Republic of Korea before the month ends.

His statements on that day rattled stock exchanges, with the benchmark US stock index closing down 2.7%, marking its largest decline since last spring.

The president’s words revived concerns of a trade war between the two economic giants.

In May, the both nations had reached an agreement to eliminate significant levies on each other’s products, which had led to concerns of commerce ceasing between the two countries.

As a result, United States levies on Chinese goods subject to an additional import tax compared with the beginning of 2025, while items from the United States entering China are subject to a 10% tariff.

Beijing’s recent statements – published by the relevant government department in the manner of official answers to media inquiries – mirrored terminology from the zenith of the latest commercial tensions.

The remarks condemned US export restrictions on semiconductors and chips while justifying China’s own restrictions on exports on rare earths as “standard procedures” to ensure state interests and that of every country.

Their representative said that for “an extended period”, the America had “broadened the definition” of national security, misused export control measures and “implemented” discriminatory practices against Beijing.

“Turning to” import duty warnings is not the proper method to deal with Beijing,” their representative commented.

“Beijing’s stance” on a import duty dispute has remained unchanging: we are not seeking one, but we are unafraid of one.”

Last week, Beijing revealed it was tightening overseas sale regulations on key elements and other materials critical for advanced tech manufacturing.

The action was viewed as a significant step, as the state processes about 90% of the global rare earth supply, which are utilized in items such as solar panels and mobile phones.

New remarks from both governments are being viewed by observers as a means of strengthening positions ahead of forthcoming discussions.

Remains uncertain whether a talks between the former president and Xi Jinping, planned at a summit in the Republic of Korea before month’s end, will go ahead.