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Donald Trump’s latest warning to enforce an further 100% tariff on products from China has been called a “classic case” of US double standards, per the Beijing administration.

A Commerce Ministry spokesperson also stated that Beijing could enact its own unrevealed “countermeasures” if the US President executes his pledge, emphasizing that the country was “fearless” of a possible commercial battle.

This past Friday, Donald Trump responded at China’s decision to tighten its rules for exports of rare earths, alleging Beijing of “turning aggressive” and attempting to hold the international market “under its control”.

Additionally, he vowed to cancel a planned talks with Beijing’s head of state Xi Jinping, which was expected to take place during a conference in the Republic of Korea before the month ends.

Trump’s comments on that day shook stock exchanges, with the benchmark US stock index dropping 2.7%, marking its largest decline since April.

These statements renewed apprehensions of a trade war between the two economic giants.

In May, the two sides had consented to remove high import duties on each other’s goods, which had led to concerns of commerce ceasing between the two countries.

Consequently, United States levies on products from China incurring an extra import tax compared with the year’s onset, while American products entering the country are subject to a ten percent duty.

The most recent comments from China – issued by the Commerce Ministry in the manner of written responses to media inquiries – echoed language from the height of the ongoing trade dispute.

They criticised United States controls on electronic components while justifying China’s own export controls on rare earths as “standard procedures” to safeguard national security and that of the global community.

The official stated that for “many years”, the United States had “broadened the definition” of domestic safety, misused overseas sale restrictions and “implemented” discriminatory practices against China.

“Turning to” tariff threats is not the proper method to interact with China,” the official commented.

“Beijing’s stance” on a trade conflict has always been consistent: we are not seeking one, but we are fearless of one.”

Recently, China revealed it was tightening foreign shipment restrictions on key elements and other materials critical for advanced tech manufacturing.

This was seen as a significant step, as the nation handles about 90% of the world’s rare earths, which are used in items such as photovoltaic modules and mobile phones.

Latest statements from both governments are being interpreted by observers as a means of strengthening positions ahead of forthcoming discussions.

Remains uncertain whether a meeting between Trump and China’s leader, planned at a summit in South Korea before month’s end, will take place as planned.