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Trump’s newest ultimatum to impose an additional complete levy on items imported from China has been described as a “typical example” of US double standards, as stated by the Beijing administration.

A Commerce Ministry spokesperson further commented that Beijing could introduce its own unrevealed “responsive actions” if the US President follows through on his warning, noting that the country was “not afraid” of a potential trade conflict.

On Friday, the former president responded at Beijing’s move to tighten its policies for exports of rare earth minerals, alleging China of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the world “captive”.

He also warned to withdraw from a planned talks with China’s President Xi Jinping, which was expected to take place during a conference in the Republic of Korea before the month ends.

The former president’s remarks on that day shook stock exchanges, with the S&P 500 falling by nearly three percent, marking its largest decline since April.

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

In May, the two sides had reached an agreement to remove significant levies on each other’s goods, which had led to concerns of bilateral trade stopping between the two countries.

As a result, US tariffs on Chinese imports facing an extra thirty percent tariff compared with the year’s onset, while US goods entering China incur a import levy.

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

They criticised American limits on exports on semiconductors and chips while supporting the country’s own restrictions on exports on rare earths as “normal actions” to safeguard state interests and that of every country.

The official remarked that for “many years”, the US had “broadened the definition” of state security, exploited overseas sale restrictions and “implemented” unfair treatments against China.

“Using” import duty warnings is not the proper method to engage with China,” the spokesperson said.

“Beijing’s stance” on a tariff war has remained consistent: we do not want one, but we are fearless of one.”

Recently, China revealed it was reinforcing overseas sale regulations on rare earth minerals and additional substances critical for advanced tech manufacturing.

This was seen as a important measure, as the country handles about 90% of the world’s rare earths, which are utilized in items such as renewable energy components and handheld devices.

Latest statements from both governments are being interpreted by some as a method of bolstering negotiating stances ahead of forthcoming discussions.

Is not yet known whether a summit between Donald Trump and President Xi, expected at a high-level meeting in Seoul later this month, will go ahead.