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Donald Trump’s newest ultimatum to enforce an additional full import duty on Chinese goods has been described as a “typical example” of US double standards, per the Chinese government.

A representative of the ministry further commented that China could enact its own unrevealed “responsive actions” if the American leader follows through on his pledge, adding that the country was “fearless” of a looming trade conflict.

Last Friday, the former president responded at the Chinese government’s action to tighten its regulations for overseas sales of critical elements, alleging Beijing of “adopting a confrontational stance” and attempting to hold the world “hostage”.

He also threatened to withdraw from a scheduled talks with China’s President President Xi, which was set for a summit in Seoul in the coming weeks.

His statements on Friday unsettled financial markets, with the S&P 500 falling by over two and a half percent, marking its steepest fall since earlier this year.

These statements revived fears of a trade war between the US and China.

Earlier this year, the respective governments had agreed to eliminate triple-digit tariffs on each other’s products, which had created the possibility of bilateral trade stopping between the two nations.

Consequently, US tariffs on products from China facing an extra 30% levy compared with the beginning of 2025, while US goods entering China are subject to a import levy.

The most recent comments from China – released by the Commerce Ministry in the format of formal replies to journalist’s questions – mirrored rhetoric from the zenith of the ongoing trade dispute.

They criticised US export restrictions on semiconductors and chips while defending the country’s own overseas sale regulations on rare earths as “normal actions” to safeguard state interests and that of all nations.

The spokesperson remarked that for “many years”, the America had “overstretched the concept of national security, misused foreign shipment regulations and “enforced” biased policies against China.

“Turning to” import duty warnings is not the correct approach to deal with the Chinese government,” the official stated.

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

Recently, the Chinese government revealed it was reinforcing overseas sale regulations on rare earths and further resources vital for advanced tech manufacturing.

This was seen as a important measure, as the country refines about 90% of the planet’s critical minerals, which are employed in goods such as photovoltaic modules and smartphones.

New remarks from both governments are being interpreted by some as a strategy of bolstering negotiating stances ahead of upcoming negotiations.

It is unclear whether a meeting between Donald Trump and China’s leader, scheduled at a high-level meeting in Seoul in the coming weeks, will take place as planned.