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The former US president’s most recent threat to impose an extra full import duty on items imported from China has been called a “typical example” of American hypocrisy, as stated by the China’s leadership.

A official from China’s Commerce Ministry also stated that Beijing could enact its own undisclosed “countermeasures” if the White House occupant follows through on his threat, noting that the country was “unafraid” of a possible trade conflict.

Last Friday, Donald Trump hit back at Beijing’s move to reinforce its regulations for exports of rare earths, accusing Beijing of “adopting a confrontational stance” and attempting to hold the world “hostage”.

Furthermore, he vowed to withdraw from a arranged talks with China’s President President Xi, which was set for a conference in the Republic of Korea before the month ends.

His statements on Friday shook global markets, with the S&P 500 share index dropping over two and a half percent, marking its steepest fall since earlier this year.

The president’s words reignited concerns of a trade war between the US and China.

This past spring, the two sides had consented to remove triple-digit tariffs on each other’s products, which had created the possibility of trade halting between the two nations.

This left, US tariffs on products from China subject to an additional import tax compared with the year’s onset, while American products entering the country face a 10% tariff.

Beijing’s recent statements – published by the relevant government department in the manner of official answers to media inquiries – reflected language from the height of the latest commercial tensions.

The remarks condemned US export restrictions on semiconductors and chips while defending Beijing’s export controls on key elements as “normal actions” to protect domestic safety and that of the global community.

The spokesperson stated that for “a long time”, the United States had “overstretched the concept of domestic safety, exploited export control measures and “adopted discriminatory practices against Beijing.

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

“The nation’s view” on a tariff war has remained consistent: we wish to avoid one, but we are fearless of one.”

The previous week, China revealed it was tightening foreign shipment restrictions on rare earths and other materials vital for advanced tech manufacturing.

The action was viewed as a important measure, as the state handles about ninety percent of the planet’s critical minerals, which are used in products such as solar panels and handheld devices.

Latest statements from both governments are being viewed by analysts as a strategy of bolstering negotiating stances in preparation for upcoming negotiations.

Remains uncertain whether a meeting between the former president and China’s leader, expected at a conference in Seoul later this month, will still proceed.