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The former US president’s newest ultimatum to enforce an further 100% tariff on items imported from China has been called a “typical example” of American hypocrisy, according to the Chinese government.

A Commerce Ministry spokesperson further commented that the nation could enact its own unrevealed “countermeasures” if the White House occupant executes his threat, adding that the country was “fearless” of a potential trade conflict.

On Friday, Trump hit back at the Chinese government’s action to tighten its regulations for overseas sales of rare earth minerals, charging China of “turning aggressive” and attempting to hold the international market “hostage”.

Additionally, he threatened to cancel a arranged meeting with Beijing’s head of state Xi Jinping, which was set for a conference in Seoul later this month.

His statements on last Friday unsettled stock exchanges, with the S&P 500 falling by nearly three percent, marking its largest decline since last spring.

His comments revived concerns of a commercial dispute between the United States and China.

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

As a result, US tariffs on Chinese goods facing an added 30% levy compared with the beginning of 2025, while items from the United States entering the country are subject to a 10% tariff.

The most recent comments from China – released by the Commerce Ministry in the format of formal replies to media inquiries – mirrored language from the peak of the ongoing trade dispute.

The remarks condemned US export restrictions on chips and semi-conductors while defending Beijing’s restrictions on exports on rare earth minerals as “standard procedures” to safeguard domestic safety and that of all nations.

The official remarked that for “an extended period”, the America had “broadened the definition” of state security, misused overseas sale restrictions and “implemented” discriminatory practices against China.

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

“The nation’s view” on a trade conflict has consistently been steady: we are not seeking one, but we are fearless of one.”

Recently, Beijing declared it was tightening export controls on rare earth minerals and further resources essential to high-technology production.

This was seen as a significant step, as the state processes about ninety percent of the planet’s critical minerals, which are used in items such as renewable energy components and handheld devices.

The recent comments from both governments are being viewed by observers as a method of bolstering negotiating stances in preparation for upcoming negotiations.

It is unclear whether a meeting between Donald Trump and President Xi, planned at a conference in the Republic of Korea later this month, will take place as planned.