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Donald Trump’s most recent warning to impose an further complete levy on Chinese goods has been described as a “typical example” of American hypocrisy, as stated by the Chinese government.

A representative of the ministry further commented that the nation could implement its own undisclosed “responsive actions” if the White House occupant follows through on his pledge, emphasizing that the country was “unafraid” of a possible trade war.

Last Friday, Trump hit back at the Chinese government’s action to tighten its policies for foreign shipments of rare earth minerals, alleging China of “turning aggressive” and attempting to hold the global community “hostage”.

Additionally, he threatened to withdraw from a arranged talks with China’s President President Xi, which was expected to take place during a meeting in South Korea in the coming weeks.

Trump’s comments on Friday rattled financial markets, with the S&P 500 share index falling by over two and a half percent, marking its biggest drop since earlier this year.

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

Earlier this year, the both nations had agreed to eliminate high import duties on each other’s imports, which had led to concerns of commerce ceasing between the two nations.

This left, US tariffs on Chinese imports subject to an added thirty percent tariff compared with the beginning of 2025, while items from the United States entering the Chinese market are subject to a import levy.

Beijing’s recent statements – published by the Commerce Ministry in the format of official answers to press queries – reflected rhetoric from the peak of the ongoing trade dispute.

The remarks condemned American limits on exports on semiconductors and chips while supporting Beijing’s restrictions on exports on rare earths as “routine measures” to ensure domestic safety and that of every country.

The spokesperson stated that for “a long time”, the United States had “overstretched the concept of state security, abused overseas sale restrictions and “enforced” biased policies against the Chinese nation.

“Turning to” tariff threats is not the proper method to interact with Beijing,” the spokesperson said.

“The nation’s view” on a tariff war has always been consistent: we wish to avoid one, but we are not afraid of one.”

The previous week, the Chinese government revealed it was reinforcing export controls on rare earth minerals and additional substances vital for advanced tech manufacturing.

The action was viewed as a significant step, as the country 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 viewed by some as a method of bolstering negotiating stances in preparation for future trade talks.

Is not yet known whether a talks between the former president and Xi Jinping, expected at a summit in Seoul before month’s end, will go ahead.