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Donald Trump’s newest warning to impose an further 100% tariff on products from China has been described as a “prime illustration” of US double standards, as stated by the Beijing administration.

A representative of the ministry also stated that the nation could enact its own undisclosed “retaliatory steps” if the US President follows through on his warning, emphasizing that the country was “unafraid” of a looming trade conflict.

This past Friday, the former president hit back at the Chinese government’s action to reinforce its regulations for exports of critical elements, accusing China of “turning aggressive” and attempting to hold the international market “hostage”.

Additionally, he warned to cancel a scheduled meeting with Chinese leader President Xi, which was arranged for a summit in the Republic of Korea before the month ends.

Trump’s comments on that day shook global markets, with the S&P 500 share index falling by 2.7%, marking its steepest fall since last spring.

The president’s words reignited apprehensions of a commercial dispute between the two economic giants.

This past spring, the two sides had reached an agreement to remove significant levies on each other’s imports, which had created the possibility of trade halting between the two countries.

Consequently, United States levies on products from China facing an added 30% levy compared with the beginning of 2025, while American products entering China face a 10% tariff.

The most recent comments from China – released by the Commerce Ministry in the manner of official answers to media inquiries – reflected language from the zenith of the latest commercial tensions.

The remarks condemned US export restrictions on chips and semi-conductors while supporting China’s own restrictions on exports on key elements as “routine measures” to ensure domestic safety and that of all nations.

The official said that for “many years”, the America had “broadened the definition” of domestic safety, exploited overseas sale restrictions and “adopted discriminatory practices against Beijing.

“Using” tariff threats is not the right way to engage with China,” their representative said.

“China’s position on a trade conflict has always been unchanging: we do not want one, but we are not afraid of one.”

Recently, Beijing revealed it was strengthening foreign shipment restrictions on rare earths and other materials essential to advanced tech manufacturing.

This move was regarded as a key move, as the country handles about 90% of the global rare earth supply, which are utilized in items such as solar panels and smartphones.

The recent comments from the US and China are being interpreted by analysts as a method of bolstering negotiating stances ahead of forthcoming discussions.

It is unclear whether a meeting between Trump and President Xi, planned at a conference in South Korea before month’s end, will still proceed.