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Trump’s newest threat to introduce an further 100% tariff on Chinese goods has been labeled a “classic case” of US double standards, according to the Chinese government.

A representative of the ministry further commented that the nation could implement its own undisclosed “responsive actions” if the White House occupant executes his threat, adding that the country was “not afraid” of a possible trade war.

This past Friday, Donald Trump hit back at the Chinese government’s action to reinforce its policies for exports of critical elements, alleging China of “turning aggressive” and attempting to hold the international market “captive”.

Additionally, he warned to withdraw from a arranged meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, which was expected to take place during a meeting in the Republic of Korea in the coming weeks.

His statements on Friday rattled financial markets, with the benchmark US stock index falling by over two and a half percent, marking its biggest drop since last spring.

His comments renewed apprehensions of a trade conflict between the United States and China.

Earlier this year, the both nations had reached an agreement to drop triple-digit tariffs on each other’s products, which had led to concerns of trade halting between the economic powers.

Consequently, United States levies on Chinese imports facing an additional 30% levy compared with the beginning of 2025, while items from the United States entering China incur a 10% tariff.

The most recent comments from China – released by the relevant government department in the form of official answers to media inquiries – echoed rhetoric from the peak of the recent trade conflict.

The remarks condemned United States controls on semiconductors and chips while justifying the country’s own export controls on rare earths as “standard procedures” to protect domestic safety and that of all nations.

The official stated that for “a long time”, the United States had “broadened the definition” of domestic safety, misused overseas sale restrictions and “adopted discriminatory practices against Beijing.

“Turning to” trade levy ultimatums is not the correct approach to engage with Beijing,” their representative said.

“The nation’s view” on a trade conflict has remained consistent: we are not seeking one, but we are unafraid of one.”

Recently, Beijing declared it was reinforcing export controls on rare earths and further resources essential to cutting-edge industry.

This was seen as a key move, as the nation refines about ninety percent of the global rare earth supply, which are employed in products such as solar panels and mobile phones.

Latest statements from the US and China are being seen by observers as a method of enhancing bargaining power ahead of upcoming negotiations.

It is unclear whether a talks between the former president and China’s leader, scheduled at a conference in South Korea later this month, will take place as planned.