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Trump’s newest ultimatum to enforce an further 100% tariff on Chinese goods has been labeled a “typical example” of US double standards, as stated by the China’s leadership.

A Commerce Ministry spokesperson additionally remarked that Beijing could implement its own unspecified “responsive actions” if the US President follows through on his threat, adding that the country was “fearless” of a potential trade war.

On Friday, Donald Trump retaliated at China’s decision to strengthen its regulations for foreign shipments of rare earths, charging the Chinese leadership of “turning aggressive” and attempting to hold the international market “hostage”.

He also warned to cancel a scheduled meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, which was set for a summit in Seoul later this month.

The former president’s remarks on Friday rattled global markets, with the benchmark US stock index dropping 2.7%, marking its biggest drop since April.

These statements revived concerns of a trade war between the United States and China.

This past spring, the both nations had consented to drop triple-digit tariffs on each other’s products, which had raised the prospect of commerce ceasing between the economic powers.

Consequently, US tariffs on Chinese goods facing an extra thirty percent tariff compared with the year’s onset, while American products entering China are subject to a ten percent duty.

China’s latest remarks – issued by the Commerce Ministry in the manner of official answers to media inquiries – reflected terminology from the peak of the ongoing trade dispute.

They criticised US export restrictions on electronic components while supporting China’s own overseas sale regulations on rare earth minerals as “routine measures” to safeguard state interests and that of the global community.

The official said that for “many years”, the United States had “broadened the definition” of domestic safety, misused export control measures and “adopted biased policies against Beijing.

“Using” trade levy ultimatums is not the right way to deal with China,” the official said.

“The nation’s view” on a import duty dispute has consistently been consistent: we are not seeking one, but we are not afraid of one.”

The previous week, the Chinese government revealed it was strengthening foreign shipment restrictions on rare earth minerals and additional substances critical for cutting-edge industry.

This move was regarded as a significant step, as the country processes about the vast majority of the world’s rare earths, which are employed in goods such as renewable energy components and smartphones.

Latest statements from both governments are being interpreted by some as a strategy of bolstering negotiating stances in preparation for forthcoming discussions.

Remains uncertain whether a summit between the former president and Xi Jinping, scheduled at a conference in South Korea before month’s end, will go ahead.