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Trump’s newest threat to enforce an further 100% tariff on Chinese goods has been described as a “classic case” of United States’ contradictory behavior, per the China’s leadership.

A official from China’s Commerce Ministry further commented that China could implement its own undisclosed “responsive actions” if the American leader executes his threat, noting that the country was “fearless” of a potential trade conflict.

Last Friday, Trump retaliated at China’s decision to tighten its regulations for exports of rare earths, charging China of “adopting a confrontational stance” and attempting to hold the world “hostage”.

Furthermore, he threatened to cancel a scheduled meeting with China’s President President Xi, which was arranged for a conference in the Republic of Korea in the coming weeks.

The former president’s remarks on Friday unsettled global markets, with the benchmark US stock index dropping nearly three percent, marking its biggest drop since last spring.

The president’s words renewed fears of a trade conflict between the United States and China.

This past spring, the both nations had reached an agreement to eliminate significant levies on each other’s products, which had created the possibility of commerce ceasing between the two countries.

Consequently, United States levies on Chinese goods facing an additional import tax compared with the beginning of 2025, while items from the United States entering the country face a import levy.

The most recent comments from China – released by the relevant government department in the form of formal replies to journalist’s questions – mirrored language from the height of the ongoing trade dispute.

They criticised US export restrictions on semiconductors and chips while supporting Beijing’s export controls on rare earths as “routine measures” to ensure national security and that of the global community.

The spokesperson said that for “many years”, the United States had “overstretched the concept of national security, exploited overseas sale restrictions and “enforced” unfair treatments against the Chinese nation.

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

“Beijing’s stance” on a import duty dispute has remained consistent: we are not seeking one, but we are fearless of one.”

Last week, China revealed it was tightening export controls on rare earth minerals and other materials vital for cutting-edge industry.

The action was viewed as a important measure, as the state processes about the vast majority of the world’s rare earths, which are utilized in items such as solar panels and smartphones.

Latest statements from the US and China are being viewed by observers as a strategy of strengthening positions in preparation for future trade talks.

It is unclear whether a meeting between Trump and President Xi, expected at a high-level meeting in Seoul before month’s end, will go ahead.