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Trump’s most recent ultimatum to impose an additional full import duty on items imported from China has been described as a “typical example” of US double standards, according to the China’s leadership.

A representative of the ministry also stated that China could enact its own unrevealed “retaliatory steps” if the White House occupant executes his warning, emphasizing that the country was “fearless” of a potential commercial battle.

Last Friday, Trump retaliated at Beijing’s move to strengthen its rules for exports of rare earth minerals, charging the Chinese leadership of “turning aggressive” and attempting to hold the international market “hostage”.

Furthermore, he threatened to cancel a planned meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, which was set for a summit in South Korea before the month ends.

The former president’s remarks on Friday shook financial markets, with the S&P 500 falling by over two and a half percent, marking its biggest drop since April.

The president’s words reignited concerns of a trade war between the two economic giants.

In May, the two sides had consented to eliminate significant levies on each other’s products, which had raised the prospect of commerce ceasing between the economic powers.

Consequently, United States levies on products from China incurring an additional thirty percent tariff compared with the start of the year, while US goods entering the country face a import levy.

The most recent comments from China – issued by the Ministry of Commerce in the format of official answers to media inquiries – mirrored language from the peak of the recent trade conflict.

The remarks condemned American limits on exports on chips and semi-conductors while defending the country’s own restrictions on exports on key elements as “standard procedures” to ensure state interests and that of every country.

The official stated that for “many years”, the US had “broadened the definition” of state security, exploited overseas sale restrictions and “enforced” discriminatory practices against China.

“Resorting to import duty warnings is not the right way to engage with the Chinese government,” their representative stated.

“The nation’s view” on a trade conflict has always been unchanging: we do not want one, but we are unafraid of one.”

Last week, Beijing announced it was tightening export controls on rare earth minerals and further resources vital for advanced tech manufacturing.

The action was viewed as a key move, as the state processes about ninety percent of the global rare earth supply, which are used in items such as solar panels and handheld devices.

Latest statements from Washington and Beijing are being interpreted by analysts as a means of enhancing bargaining power ahead of future trade talks.

Remains uncertain whether a summit between Trump and President Xi, expected at a high-level meeting in Seoul before month’s end, will still proceed.