🔗 Share this article

The former US president’s most recent warning to enforce an additional full import duty on items imported from China has been described as a “typical example” of United States’ contradictory behavior, per the Chinese government.

A official from China’s Commerce Ministry additionally remarked that the nation could introduce its own unrevealed “countermeasures” if the American leader executes his warning, emphasizing that the country was “not afraid” of a looming trade war.

On Friday, Trump responded at Beijing’s move to reinforce its regulations for foreign shipments of rare earths, accusing Beijing of “adopting a confrontational stance” and attempting to hold the global community “hostage”.

Furthermore, he warned to cancel a arranged talks with China’s President Xi Jinping, which was expected to take place during a summit in the Republic of Korea before the month ends.

The former president’s remarks on that day unsettled stock exchanges, with the S&P 500 share index dropping 2.7%, marking its biggest drop since last spring.

These statements reignited fears of a trade war between the US and China.

In May, the both nations had consented to eliminate triple-digit tariffs on each other’s products, which had raised the prospect of commerce ceasing between the economic powers.

As a result, US tariffs on Chinese imports incurring an extra 30% levy compared with the year’s onset, while American products entering China incur a 10% tariff.

Beijing’s recent statements – released by the Ministry of Commerce in the form of formal replies to press queries – echoed rhetoric from the height of the ongoing trade dispute.

Officials denounced American limits on exports on chips and semi-conductors while justifying the country’s own export controls on rare earth minerals as “normal actions” to safeguard national security and that of the global community.

The spokesperson stated that for “a long time”, the America had “overstretched the concept of state security, exploited overseas sale restrictions and “implemented” biased policies against Beijing.

“Turning to” import duty warnings is not the proper method to deal with Beijing,” their representative said.

“China’s position on a trade conflict has consistently been steady: we are not seeking one, but we are fearless of one.”

Last week, the Chinese government revealed it was reinforcing export controls on key elements and additional substances vital for high-technology production.

This move was regarded as a important measure, as the nation handles about 90% of the planet’s critical minerals, which are employed in products such as solar panels and smartphones.

Latest statements from the US and China are being seen by analysts as a means of bolstering negotiating stances prior to forthcoming discussions.

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