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Trump’s most recent threat to enforce an further full import duty on products from China has been called a “typical example” of American hypocrisy, as stated by the Chinese government.

A Commerce Ministry spokesperson additionally remarked that China could introduce its own unspecified “countermeasures” if the White House occupant carries out his threat, adding that the country was “unafraid” of a potential trade conflict.

On Friday, Trump retaliated at China’s decision to tighten its regulations for exports of rare earth minerals, alleging China of “turning aggressive” and attempting to hold the global community “under its control”.

Additionally, he vowed to withdraw from a planned meeting with Chinese leader President Xi, which was expected to take place during a meeting in South Korea later this month.

The former president’s remarks on that day unsettled stock exchanges, with the S&P 500 closing down nearly three percent, marking its steepest fall since April.

These statements revived fears of a trade conflict between the two economic giants.

In May, the both nations had reached an agreement to drop triple-digit tariffs on each other’s products, which had created the possibility of commerce ceasing between the two countries.

As a result, American import duties on products from China subject to an additional thirty percent tariff compared with the year’s onset, while items from the United States entering the Chinese market are subject to a ten percent duty.

The most recent comments from China – published by the relevant government department in the format of written responses to journalist’s questions – echoed language from the height of the latest commercial tensions.

The remarks condemned American limits on exports on semiconductors and chips while justifying China’s own restrictions on exports on key elements as “normal actions” to protect domestic safety and that of all nations.

The spokesperson said that for “an extended period”, the United States had “expanded the interpretation” of national security, abused overseas sale restrictions and “adopted unfair treatments against the Chinese nation.

“Turning to” tariff threats is not the right way to interact with Beijing,” their representative stated.

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

Last week, China announced it was reinforcing overseas sale regulations on rare earth minerals and further resources critical for high-technology production.

This move was regarded as a important measure, as the state processes about the vast majority of the planet’s critical minerals, which are employed in products such as solar panels and mobile phones.

Latest statements from both governments are being viewed by observers as a method of strengthening positions in preparation for future trade talks.

Remains uncertain whether a summit between Trump and Xi Jinping, expected at a high-level meeting in Seoul in the coming weeks, will take place as planned.