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Donald Trump’s latest ultimatum to impose an further full import duty on products from China has been called a “classic case” of US double standards, according to the China’s leadership.

A representative of the ministry further commented that the nation could enact its own unrevealed “countermeasures” if the US President executes his threat, adding that the country was “not afraid” of a possible trade conflict.

This past Friday, Donald Trump hit back at Beijing’s move to tighten its policies for foreign shipments of critical elements, accusing China of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the world “hostage”.

He also threatened to cancel a arranged talks with Chinese leader President Xi, which was expected to take place during a meeting in South Korea in the coming weeks.

His statements on last Friday unsettled stock exchanges, with the benchmark US stock index dropping 2.7%, marking its biggest drop since earlier this year.

The president’s words renewed fears of a trade war between the United States and China.

Earlier this year, the both nations had consented to eliminate high import duties on each other’s imports, which had raised the prospect of trade halting between the economic powers.

This left, United States levies on products from China facing an added thirty percent tariff compared with the beginning of 2025, while American products entering China are subject to a 10% tariff.

The most recent comments from China – published by the Commerce Ministry in the manner of official answers to press queries – echoed rhetoric from the height of the ongoing trade dispute.

Officials denounced United States controls on chips and semi-conductors while defending the country’s own export controls on rare earth minerals as “standard procedures” to safeguard national security and that of the global community.

The official said that for “an extended period”, the US had “broadened the definition” of domestic safety, misused foreign shipment regulations and “enforced” discriminatory practices against China.

“Turning to” trade levy ultimatums is not the proper method to deal with Beijing,” the official stated.

“China’s position on a import duty dispute has remained consistent: we do not want one, but we are fearless of one.”

Last week, Beijing revealed it was tightening export controls on rare earth minerals and other materials vital for high-technology production.

The action was viewed as a significant step, as the country processes about 90% of the planet’s critical minerals, which are employed in goods such as solar panels and smartphones.

Latest statements from the US and China are being viewed by some as a method of strengthening positions prior to upcoming negotiations.

It is unclear whether a talks between the former president and President Xi, planned at a conference in South Korea later this month, will go ahead.