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Trump’s newest warning to introduce an further 100% tariff on items imported from China has been labeled a “prime illustration” of US double standards, as stated by the China’s leadership.

A Commerce Ministry spokesperson also stated that China could implement its own undisclosed “responsive actions” if the American leader follows through on his pledge, emphasizing that the country was “fearless” of a looming commercial battle.

This past Friday, Donald Trump retaliated at China’s decision to strengthen its rules for overseas sales of critical elements, accusing the Chinese leadership of “adopting a confrontational stance” and attempting to hold the world “hostage”.

He also warned to pull out of a planned talks with China’s President Xi Jinping, which was set for a meeting in Seoul before the month ends.

The former president’s remarks on last Friday shook stock exchanges, with the S&P 500 share index falling by over two and a half percent, marking its largest decline since April.

These statements renewed fears of a commercial dispute between the two economic giants.

This past spring, the two sides had agreed to eliminate significant levies on each other’s goods, which had led to concerns of commerce ceasing between the two nations.

Consequently, American import duties on Chinese goods subject to an added import tax compared with the beginning of 2025, while American products entering China incur a ten percent duty.

China’s latest remarks – released by the Commerce Ministry in the format of formal replies to press queries – reflected language from the height of the latest commercial tensions.

They criticised American limits on exports on electronic components while supporting Beijing’s export controls on rare earths as “standard procedures” to ensure national security and that of every country.

The official said that for “many years”, the US had “overstretched the concept of national security, abused overseas sale restrictions and “adopted discriminatory practices against Beijing.

“Resorting to tariff threats is not the correct approach to engage with China,” their representative said.

“China’s position on a tariff war has always been unchanging: we are not seeking one, but we are unafraid of one.”

The previous week, the Chinese government declared it was reinforcing foreign shipment restrictions on key elements and further resources critical for high-technology production.

This move was regarded as a important measure, as the state handles about 90% of the global rare earth supply, which are utilized in products such as renewable energy components and mobile phones.

The recent comments from both governments are being interpreted by some as a method of strengthening positions prior to forthcoming discussions.

Is not yet known whether a talks between the former president and President Xi, planned at a high-level meeting in Seoul before month’s end, will go ahead.