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The former US president’s newest warning to enforce an additional 100% tariff on products from China has been labeled a “typical example” of US double standards, according to the Beijing administration.

A Commerce Ministry spokesperson further commented that Beijing could enact its own undisclosed “retaliatory steps” if the American leader follows through on his pledge, adding that the country was “not afraid” of a potential commercial battle.

Last Friday, Trump retaliated at the Chinese government’s action to reinforce its regulations for exports of rare earth minerals, charging Beijing of “adopting a confrontational stance” and attempting to hold the world “under its control”.

Additionally, he vowed to withdraw from a arranged summit with Chinese leader Xi, which was expected to take place during a summit in the Republic of Korea before the month ends.

The former president’s remarks on that day shook financial markets, with the benchmark US stock index closing down nearly three percent, marking its biggest drop since April.

His comments revived concerns of a trade conflict between the two economic giants.

Earlier this year, the both nations had consented to drop significant levies on each other’s products, which had led to concerns of commerce ceasing between the two countries.

Consequently, US tariffs on Chinese goods incurring an added 30% levy compared with the beginning of 2025, while US goods entering China incur a import levy.

China’s latest remarks – published by the Commerce Ministry in the form of written responses to press queries – reflected language from the peak of the recent trade conflict.

Officials denounced US export restrictions on semiconductors and chips while defending Beijing’s overseas sale regulations on rare earth minerals as “routine measures” to safeguard national security and that of the global community.

Their representative remarked that for “a long time”, the US had “expanded the interpretation” of state security, abused export control measures and “enforced” discriminatory practices against Beijing.

“Turning to” import duty warnings is not the correct approach to deal with the Chinese government,” the spokesperson said.

“The nation’s view” on a tariff war has consistently been consistent: we do not want one, but we are fearless of one.”

Last week, the Chinese government announced it was tightening foreign shipment restrictions on rare earth minerals and other materials vital for high-technology production.

The action was viewed as a key move, as the nation handles about ninety percent of the global rare earth supply, which are utilized in goods such as solar panels and handheld devices.

Latest statements from the US and China are being viewed by observers as a strategy of strengthening positions ahead of future trade talks.

Is not yet known whether a talks between the former president and President Xi, expected at a conference in Seoul later this month, will take place as planned.