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Donald Trump’s newest warning to introduce an further complete levy on Chinese goods has been labeled a “typical example” of American hypocrisy, as stated by the China’s leadership.

A representative of the ministry additionally remarked that Beijing could enact its own unspecified “retaliatory steps” if the White House occupant executes his threat, adding that the country was “not afraid” of a possible commercial battle.

Last Friday, Trump responded at Beijing’s move to strengthen its rules for overseas sales of rare earth minerals, alleging Beijing of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the global community “captive”.

Additionally, he warned to cancel a arranged meeting with Beijing’s head of state Xi, which was expected to take place during a meeting in the Republic of Korea in the coming weeks.

The former president’s remarks on last Friday unsettled stock exchanges, with the S&P 500 share index closing down 2.7%, marking its steepest fall since earlier this year.

His comments reignited apprehensions of a trade war between the two economic giants.

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

Consequently, US tariffs on Chinese imports subject to an extra 30% levy compared with the beginning of 2025, while US goods entering the country face a import levy.

Beijing’s recent statements – released by the Commerce Ministry in the manner of formal replies to journalist’s questions – reflected terminology from the peak of the latest commercial tensions.

They criticised US export restrictions on chips and semi-conductors while defending China’s own overseas sale regulations on rare earths as “standard procedures” to safeguard state interests and that of every country.

The spokesperson stated that for “many years”, the America had “overstretched the concept of state security, exploited foreign shipment regulations and “enforced” unfair treatments against the Chinese nation.

“Using” tariff threats is not the proper method to interact with China,” the official said.

“China’s position on a trade conflict has consistently been unchanging: we are not seeking one, but we are fearless of one.”

The previous week, Beijing revealed it was tightening overseas sale regulations on rare earth minerals and other materials vital for high-technology production.

This was seen as a significant step, as the country handles about 90% of the global rare earth supply, which are employed in products such as solar panels and mobile phones.

Latest statements from Washington and Beijing are being seen by analysts as a method of strengthening positions prior to future trade talks.

It is unclear whether a talks between the former president and President Xi, scheduled at a summit in the Republic of Korea later this month, will take place as planned.