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The former US president’s latest threat to enforce an extra 100% tariff on products from China has been labeled a “classic case” of United States’ contradictory behavior, as stated by the Chinese government.

A official from China’s Commerce Ministry further commented that China could enact its own unrevealed “responsive actions” if the American leader carries out his warning, noting that the country was “not afraid” of a possible commercial battle.

On Friday, the former president responded at China’s decision to tighten its rules for foreign shipments of rare earth minerals, alleging Beijing of “turning aggressive” and attempting to hold the world “captive”.

Additionally, he vowed to withdraw from a planned talks with Beijing’s head of state President Xi, which was expected to take place during a conference in the Republic of Korea in the coming weeks.

The former president’s remarks on that day unsettled global markets, with the S&P 500 closing down 2.7%, marking its largest decline since last spring.

His comments reignited apprehensions of a trade war between the two economic giants.

This past spring, the both nations had consented to eliminate significant levies on each other’s products, which had raised the prospect of commerce ceasing between the economic powers.

As a result, United States levies on products from China facing an added import tax compared with the beginning of 2025, while US goods entering the country are subject to a 10% tariff.

The most recent comments from China – published by the Commerce Ministry in the form of formal replies to media inquiries – echoed terminology from the height of the latest commercial tensions.

Officials denounced United States controls on electronic components while justifying the country’s own restrictions on exports on key elements as “normal actions” to protect state interests and that of every country.

The official stated that for “a long time”, the America had “broadened the definition” of national security, abused overseas sale restrictions and “implemented” discriminatory practices against Beijing.

“Resorting to import duty warnings is not the right way to engage with the Chinese government,” their representative commented.

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

Recently, China announced it was strengthening foreign shipment restrictions on rare earth minerals and further resources critical for high-technology production.

This was seen as a significant step, as the nation processes about the vast majority of the world’s rare earths, which are utilized in products such as photovoltaic modules and handheld devices.

The recent comments from both governments are being viewed by observers as a strategy of enhancing bargaining power in preparation for future trade talks.

It is unclear whether a talks between Donald Trump and China’s leader, expected at a summit in Seoul later this month, will take place as planned.