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Trump’s latest ultimatum to impose an additional full import duty on Chinese goods has been described as a “typical example” of United States’ contradictory behavior, per the Beijing administration.

A representative of the ministry additionally remarked that Beijing could enact its own unspecified “retaliatory steps” if the American leader follows through on his pledge, emphasizing that the country was “fearless” of a possible commercial battle.

On Friday, Donald Trump responded at Beijing’s move to reinforce its rules for overseas sales of critical elements, accusing Beijing of “turning aggressive” and attempting to hold the international market “hostage”.

Furthermore, he vowed to withdraw from a scheduled meeting with Chinese leader President Xi, which was arranged for a conference in the Republic of Korea in the coming weeks.

His statements on that day shook financial markets, with the S&P 500 falling by 2.7%, marking its largest decline since April.

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

This past spring, the both nations had agreed to drop high import duties on each other’s imports, which had created the possibility of commerce ceasing between the two nations.

This left, US tariffs on products from China incurring an added 30% levy compared with the start of the year, while American products entering the country are subject to a 10% tariff.

China’s latest remarks – released by the relevant government department in the form of official answers to press queries – reflected rhetoric from the zenith of the recent trade conflict.

The remarks condemned United States controls on electronic components while justifying the country’s own export controls on rare earth minerals as “normal actions” to protect national security and that of the global community.

The spokesperson said that for “many years”, the America had “broadened the definition” of state security, exploited foreign shipment regulations and “adopted unfair treatments against Beijing.

“Turning to” trade levy ultimatums is not the correct approach to engage with China,” the official said.

“The nation’s view” on a tariff war has remained consistent: we do not want one, but we are not afraid of one.”

Last week, China declared it was reinforcing export controls on rare earth minerals and further resources critical for advanced tech manufacturing.

This move was regarded as a key move, as the nation handles about ninety percent of the world’s rare earths, which are utilized in items such as solar panels and handheld devices.

Latest statements from both governments are being viewed by observers as a means of strengthening positions prior to future trade talks.

Remains uncertain whether a meeting between Trump and Xi Jinping, scheduled at a summit in South Korea in the coming weeks, will take place as planned.