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Donald Trump’s newest ultimatum to impose an extra full import duty on Chinese goods has been labeled a “typical example” of US double standards, as stated by the Beijing administration.

A representative of the ministry also stated that China could implement its own unrevealed “responsive actions” if the US President executes his threat, emphasizing that the country was “fearless” of a looming trade war.

Last Friday, Donald Trump retaliated at the Chinese government’s action to strengthen its policies for exports of rare earths, alleging the Chinese leadership of “turning aggressive” and attempting to hold the world “under its control”.

He also warned to pull out of a planned summit with Beijing’s head of state Xi Jinping, which was arranged for a conference in Seoul later this month.

His statements on that day shook stock exchanges, with the S&P 500 closing down 2.7%, marking its largest decline since earlier this year.

The president’s words renewed fears of a trade conflict between the two economic giants.

Earlier this year, the respective governments had agreed to drop high import duties on each other’s products, which had created the possibility of commerce ceasing between the two nations.

As a result, American import duties on Chinese goods incurring an extra 30% levy compared with the beginning of 2025, while US goods entering the country are subject to a import levy.

Beijing’s recent statements – released by the relevant government department in the form of formal replies to media inquiries – reflected language from the zenith of the latest commercial tensions.

The remarks condemned American limits on exports on semiconductors and chips while justifying China’s own overseas sale regulations on key elements as “standard procedures” to safeguard national security and that of the global community.

The official remarked that for “a long time”, the United States had “broadened the definition” of national security, abused foreign shipment regulations and “adopted discriminatory practices against China.

“Using” import duty warnings is not the correct approach to engage with Beijing,” their representative said.

“Beijing’s stance” on a import duty dispute has always been consistent: we do not want one, but we are fearless of one.”

The previous week, China revealed it was tightening export controls on rare earths and further resources essential to cutting-edge industry.

The action was viewed as a key move, as the state handles about 90% of the world’s rare earths, which are utilized in products such as renewable energy components and smartphones.

Latest statements from Washington and Beijing are being viewed by observers as a means of strengthening positions ahead of forthcoming discussions.

It is unclear whether a summit between the former president and President Xi, scheduled at a summit in the Republic of Korea later this month, will still proceed.