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Donald Trump’s latest threat to enforce an additional complete levy on products from China has been described as a “prime illustration” of United States’ contradictory behavior, per the Chinese government.

A representative of the ministry further commented that Beijing could enact its own unrevealed “countermeasures” if the American leader follows through on his pledge, adding that the country was “not afraid” of a possible trade conflict.

Last Friday, Trump responded at Beijing’s move to reinforce its regulations for overseas sales of rare earths, alleging China of “adopting a confrontational stance” and attempting to hold the international market “captive”.

He also threatened to withdraw from a planned meeting with China’s President Xi, which was arranged for a summit in the Republic of Korea later this month.

The former president’s remarks on Friday rattled financial markets, with the benchmark US stock index dropping 2.7%, marking its largest decline since earlier this year.

The president’s words revived fears of a trade war between the US and China.

In May, the respective governments had agreed to drop triple-digit tariffs on each other’s goods, which had created the possibility of commerce ceasing between the two countries.

This left, United States levies on products from China facing an extra 30% levy compared with the beginning of 2025, while American products entering China face a 10% tariff.

The most recent comments from China – issued by the relevant government department in the manner of official answers to media inquiries – echoed terminology from the peak of the latest commercial tensions.

The remarks condemned US export restrictions on electronic components while justifying the country’s own overseas sale regulations on key elements as “standard procedures” to protect state interests and that of all nations.

The official remarked that for “a long time”, the US had “broadened the definition” of national security, abused overseas sale restrictions and “enforced” unfair treatments against China.

“Using” import duty warnings is not the proper method to deal with the Chinese government,” the spokesperson commented.

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

The previous week, Beijing revealed it was tightening foreign shipment restrictions on rare earths and further resources vital for advanced tech manufacturing.

The action was viewed as a key move, as the country processes about 90% of the world’s rare earths, which are utilized in items such as renewable energy components and mobile phones.

New remarks from both governments are being seen by some as a means of strengthening positions in preparation for upcoming negotiations.

Remains uncertain whether a summit between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping, expected at a summit in South Korea later this month, will take place as planned.