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The former US president’s latest ultimatum to enforce an further 100% tariff on products from China has been called a “prime illustration” of US double standards, as stated by the China’s leadership.

A official from China’s Commerce Ministry further commented that China could introduce its own undisclosed “retaliatory steps” if the White House occupant follows through on his pledge, adding that the country was “not afraid” of a looming trade conflict.

This past Friday, Donald Trump responded at Beijing’s move to strengthen its rules for exports of rare earths, accusing the Chinese leadership of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the international market “under its control”.

Additionally, he warned to pull out of a planned summit with Beijing’s head of state Xi, which was set for a meeting in the Republic of Korea before the month ends.

The former president’s remarks on last Friday rattled stock exchanges, with the S&P 500 falling by 2.7%, marking its biggest drop since last spring.

The president’s words reignited fears of a trade war between the two economic giants.

In May, the respective governments had agreed to drop triple-digit tariffs on each other’s products, which had raised the prospect of commerce ceasing between the economic powers.

Consequently, American import duties on products from China facing an additional import tax compared with the beginning of 2025, while items from the United States entering the country incur a 10% tariff.

The most recent comments from China – published by the relevant government department in the manner of official answers to press queries – echoed terminology from the height of the recent trade conflict.

Officials denounced US export restrictions on electronic components while justifying Beijing’s restrictions on exports on rare earth minerals as “routine measures” to ensure domestic safety and that of every country.

The spokesperson said that for “a long time”, the US had “expanded the interpretation” of domestic safety, abused foreign shipment regulations and “adopted discriminatory practices against Beijing.

“Resorting to trade levy ultimatums is not the correct approach to deal with China,” the spokesperson said.

“The nation’s view” on a trade conflict has consistently been steady: we are not seeking one, but we are fearless of one.”

Last week, China revealed it was tightening export controls on key elements and additional substances essential to high-technology production.

The action was viewed as a significant step, as the country processes about ninety percent of the global rare earth supply, which are used in items such as photovoltaic modules and smartphones.

The recent comments from the US and China are being seen by some as a means of strengthening positions in preparation for future trade talks.

Is not yet known whether a meeting between the former president and President Xi, scheduled at a summit in the Republic of Korea in the coming weeks, will still proceed.