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Trump’s newest warning to enforce an further complete levy on Chinese goods has been described as a “typical example” of US double standards, as stated by the Beijing administration.

A representative of the ministry further commented that the nation could implement its own undisclosed “retaliatory steps” if the American leader carries out his threat, noting that the country was “unafraid” of a possible trade conflict.

On Friday, Trump retaliated at the Chinese government’s action to strengthen its policies for overseas sales of critical elements, alleging Beijing of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the international market “captive”.

Additionally, he threatened to withdraw from a scheduled meeting with Chinese leader President Xi, which was arranged for a conference in Seoul later this month.

Trump’s comments on last Friday rattled global markets, with the benchmark US stock index falling by nearly three percent, marking its largest decline since April.

These statements renewed apprehensions of a trade war between the two economic giants.

Earlier this year, the both nations had consented to drop triple-digit tariffs on each other’s goods, which had led to concerns of commerce ceasing between the economic powers.

This left, American import duties on Chinese goods facing an additional import tax compared with the start of the year, while US goods entering the country incur a import levy.

China’s latest remarks – published by the Commerce Ministry in the form of written responses to journalist’s questions – reflected language from the zenith of the latest commercial tensions.

They criticised US export restrictions on electronic components while justifying the country’s own restrictions on exports on rare earths as “normal actions” to ensure domestic safety and that of every country.

The spokesperson stated that for “a long time”, the America had “overstretched the concept of state security, exploited overseas sale restrictions and “adopted biased policies against Beijing.

“Turning to” import duty warnings is not the correct approach to engage with Beijing,” the spokesperson said.

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

Last week, Beijing declared it was strengthening foreign shipment restrictions on rare earth minerals and further resources critical for advanced tech manufacturing.

This move was regarded as a significant step, as the country handles about ninety percent of the world’s rare earths, which are utilized in items such as renewable energy components and handheld devices.

Latest statements from the US and China are being viewed by some as a means of strengthening positions ahead of upcoming negotiations.

It is unclear whether a meeting between Trump and President Xi, expected at a summit in the Republic of Korea in the coming weeks, will go ahead.