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The former US president’s most recent warning to impose an extra complete levy on items imported from China has been called a “typical example” of American hypocrisy, as stated by the China’s leadership.

A representative of the ministry further commented that the nation could implement its own unrevealed “retaliatory steps” if the White House occupant carries out his warning, emphasizing that the country was “fearless” of a looming commercial battle.

This past Friday, the former president retaliated at the Chinese government’s action to strengthen its policies for foreign shipments of rare earths, accusing the Chinese leadership of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the world “hostage”.

Furthermore, he threatened to cancel a scheduled talks with China’s President Xi, which was set for a meeting in Seoul later this month.

The former president’s remarks on that day shook global markets, with the benchmark US stock index closing down nearly three percent, marking its largest decline since earlier this year.

His comments reignited fears of a trade war between the United States and China.

In May, the both nations had agreed to eliminate triple-digit tariffs on each other’s goods, which had raised the prospect of trade halting between the two nations.

Consequently, American import duties on Chinese imports subject to an additional 30% levy compared with the beginning of 2025, while American products entering China incur a import levy.

The most recent comments from China – published by the Commerce Ministry in the format of written responses to press queries – reflected terminology from the peak of the ongoing trade dispute.

The remarks condemned American limits on exports on chips and semi-conductors while justifying the country’s own export controls on rare earths as “standard procedures” to safeguard national security and that of every country.

The official said that for “an extended period”, the America had “broadened the definition” of national security, exploited foreign shipment regulations and “implemented” discriminatory practices against China.

“Using” trade levy ultimatums is not the right way to engage with the Chinese government,” their representative said.

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

Last week, Beijing announced it was strengthening overseas sale regulations on key elements and other materials vital for high-technology production.

This was seen as a key move, as the state handles about the vast majority of the planet’s critical minerals, which are used in goods such as photovoltaic modules and handheld devices.

Latest statements from the US and China are being viewed by some as a strategy of enhancing bargaining power in preparation for future trade talks.

It is unclear whether a talks between Donald Trump and China’s leader, planned at a high-level meeting in Seoul before month’s end, will take place as planned.