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Trump’s latest ultimatum to introduce an further 100% tariff on products from China has been labeled a “prime illustration” of American hypocrisy, as stated by the Chinese government.

A representative of the ministry further commented that the nation could implement its own unspecified “retaliatory steps” if the American leader follows through on his pledge, noting that the country was “fearless” of a potential trade conflict.

Last Friday, Donald Trump responded at China’s decision to tighten its policies for exports of rare earth minerals, alleging China of “adopting a confrontational stance” and attempting to hold the global community “under its control”.

He also vowed to withdraw from a arranged meeting with China’s President Xi Jinping, which was arranged for a conference in South Korea before the month ends.

His statements on Friday rattled global markets, with the S&P 500 closing down over two and a half percent, marking its steepest fall since earlier this year.

These statements reignited fears of a trade conflict between the US and China.

This past spring, the both nations had consented to drop high import duties on each other’s imports, which had led to concerns of trade halting between the two countries.

Consequently, United States levies on Chinese goods subject to an additional thirty percent tariff compared with the beginning of 2025, while US goods entering China incur a ten percent duty.

China’s latest remarks – published by the relevant government department in the format of written responses to journalist’s questions – mirrored rhetoric from the peak of the recent trade conflict.

They criticised United States controls on chips and semi-conductors while defending China’s own overseas sale regulations on key elements as “routine measures” to ensure state interests and that of all nations.

The spokesperson remarked that for “an extended period”, the US had “broadened the definition” of national security, exploited export control measures and “implemented” biased policies against China.

“Turning to” import duty warnings is not the proper method to interact with Beijing,” the official commented.

“Beijing’s stance” on a tariff war has remained unchanging: we wish to avoid one, but we are fearless of one.”

Last week, China announced it was tightening foreign shipment restrictions on key elements and further resources essential to cutting-edge industry.

This was seen as a key move, as the country refines about 90% of the planet’s critical minerals, which are used in products such as solar panels and handheld devices.

New remarks from both governments are being seen by analysts as a method of enhancing bargaining power ahead of upcoming negotiations.

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