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Trump’s newest warning to enforce an further 100% tariff on items imported from China has been labeled a “prime illustration” of United States’ contradictory behavior, per the Chinese government.

A official from China’s Commerce Ministry further commented that China could implement its own undisclosed “responsive actions” if the White House occupant executes his threat, noting that the country was “fearless” of a looming commercial battle.

This past Friday, Donald Trump responded at China’s decision to tighten its regulations for overseas sales of rare earths, alleging Beijing of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the international market “captive”.

Furthermore, he warned to withdraw from a scheduled summit with Chinese leader 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 Friday unsettled stock exchanges, with the S&P 500 share index closing down over two and a half percent, marking its largest decline since last spring.

The president’s words reignited fears of a commercial dispute between the US and China.

Earlier this year, the both nations had agreed to eliminate triple-digit tariffs on each other’s products, which had led to concerns of trade halting between the two countries.

Consequently, US tariffs on Chinese imports facing 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 Ministry of Commerce in the form of formal replies to journalist’s questions – mirrored language from the height of the latest commercial tensions.

Officials denounced US export restrictions on semiconductors and chips while defending China’s own restrictions on exports on rare earths as “routine measures” to protect national security and that of all nations.

Their representative remarked that for “an extended period”, the US had “broadened the definition” of state security, exploited foreign shipment regulations and “enforced” unfair treatments against Beijing.

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

“China’s position on a trade conflict has remained consistent: we are not seeking one, but we are not afraid of one.”

Recently, the Chinese government declared it was reinforcing overseas sale regulations on rare earths and additional substances essential to advanced tech manufacturing.

This move was regarded as a significant step, as the nation handles about 90% of the planet’s critical minerals, which are used in products such as renewable energy components and smartphones.

Latest statements from the US and China are being seen by some as a method of strengthening positions prior to future trade talks.

Remains uncertain whether a summit between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping, planned at a conference in South Korea in the coming weeks, will go ahead.