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Trump’s latest warning to impose an further full import duty on Chinese goods has been described as a “prime illustration” of American hypocrisy, as stated by the China’s leadership.

A official from China’s Commerce Ministry further commented that Beijing could implement its own undisclosed “retaliatory steps” if the American leader executes his warning, emphasizing that the country was “unafraid” of a looming trade conflict.

On Friday, Donald Trump responded at China’s decision to strengthen its rules for exports of critical elements, alleging China of “turning aggressive” and attempting to hold the international market “under its control”.

He also warned to withdraw from a arranged talks with China’s President President Xi, which was expected to take place during a meeting in Seoul before the month ends.

The former president’s remarks on last Friday rattled global markets, with the S&P 500 falling by nearly three percent, marking its biggest drop since earlier this year.

His comments renewed concerns of a trade conflict between the two economic giants.

This past spring, the respective governments had agreed to drop significant levies on each other’s products, which had led to concerns of trade halting between the economic powers.

Consequently, United States levies on Chinese imports incurring an extra import tax compared with the beginning of 2025, while American products entering China face a import levy.

China’s latest remarks – published by the Commerce Ministry in the form of formal replies to media inquiries – mirrored language from the height of the latest commercial tensions.

The remarks condemned American limits on exports on semiconductors and chips while defending China’s own restrictions on exports on rare earth minerals as “normal actions” to ensure domestic safety and that of the global community.

The spokesperson stated that for “a long time”, the United States had “expanded the interpretation” of domestic safety, exploited foreign shipment regulations and “adopted discriminatory practices against Beijing.

“Turning to” import duty warnings is not the correct approach to deal with China,” the official commented.

“China’s position on a tariff war has remained unchanging: we do not want one, but we are unafraid of one.”

Last week, the Chinese government declared it was strengthening export controls on key elements and additional substances critical for high-technology production.

This was seen as a significant step, as the country processes about ninety percent of the planet’s critical minerals, which are utilized in items such as solar panels and smartphones.

New remarks from the US and China are being seen by some as a method of bolstering negotiating stances prior to forthcoming discussions.

Remains uncertain whether a meeting between Donald Trump and President Xi, scheduled at a conference in the Republic of Korea later this month, will take place as planned.