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The former US president’s latest threat to introduce an extra 100% tariff on Chinese goods has been described as a “prime illustration” of US double standards, according to the Beijing administration.

A representative of the ministry additionally remarked that China could introduce its own unspecified “countermeasures” if the US President carries out his pledge, adding that the country was “unafraid” of a looming trade conflict.

On Friday, Trump retaliated at the Chinese government’s action to reinforce its policies for exports of rare earths, charging the Chinese leadership of “adopting a confrontational stance” and attempting to hold the world “hostage”.

Furthermore, he vowed to withdraw from a scheduled talks with China’s President President Xi, which was arranged for a meeting in South Korea later this month.

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

The president’s words reignited apprehensions of a trade war between the United States and China.

This past spring, the two sides had reached an agreement to remove high import duties on each other’s products, which had raised the prospect of commerce ceasing between the two countries.

Consequently, US tariffs on products from China facing an additional import tax compared with the beginning of 2025, while US goods entering the country are subject to a ten percent duty.

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

They criticised American limits on exports on chips and semi-conductors while supporting the country’s own overseas sale regulations on key elements as “normal actions” to protect national security and that of every country.

The spokesperson said that for “an extended period”, the US had “broadened the definition” of national security, exploited overseas sale restrictions and “adopted biased policies against the Chinese nation.

“Turning to” tariff threats is not the right way to interact with Beijing,” their representative said.

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

Last week, Beijing declared it was reinforcing overseas sale regulations on key elements and further resources critical for high-technology production.

The action was viewed as a key move, as the nation handles about the vast majority of the world’s rare earths, which are utilized in products such as photovoltaic modules and handheld devices.

The recent comments from both governments are being seen by observers as a means of enhancing bargaining power ahead of future trade talks.

Remains uncertain whether a meeting between the former president and Xi Jinping, planned at a summit in South Korea later this month, will still proceed.