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The former US president’s latest warning to enforce an extra complete levy on products from China has been described as a “classic case” of US double standards, per the Chinese government.

A Commerce Ministry spokesperson further commented that China could introduce its own undisclosed “responsive actions” if the American leader follows through on his pledge, adding that the country was “unafraid” of a looming trade war.

Last Friday, the former president responded at China’s decision to tighten its rules for overseas sales of rare earths, accusing the Chinese leadership of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the world “under its control”.

He also warned to cancel a arranged summit with China’s President Xi Jinping, which was arranged for a summit in the Republic of Korea later this month.

His statements on that day rattled global markets, with the S&P 500 dropping 2.7%, marking its largest decline since April.

These statements revived fears of a trade conflict between the United States and China.

In May, the respective governments had reached an agreement to drop triple-digit tariffs on each other’s goods, which had raised the prospect of trade halting between the economic powers.

This left, United States levies on products from China incurring an added thirty percent tariff compared with the start of the year, while items from the United States entering the country incur a 10% tariff.

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

The remarks condemned American limits on exports on electronic components while supporting Beijing’s overseas sale regulations on rare earth minerals as “routine measures” to ensure domestic safety and that of every country.

Their representative remarked that for “many years”, the America had “broadened the definition” of domestic safety, misused export control measures and “adopted discriminatory practices against the Chinese nation.

“Turning to” trade levy ultimatums is not the correct approach to engage with China,” their representative said.

“China’s position on a import duty dispute has consistently been consistent: we wish to avoid one, but we are fearless of one.”

Last week, Beijing announced it was tightening foreign shipment restrictions on key elements and other materials critical for cutting-edge industry.

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

The recent comments from Washington and Beijing are being interpreted by observers as a means of bolstering negotiating stances ahead of forthcoming discussions.

It is unclear whether a talks between Trump and President Xi, planned at a summit in the Republic of Korea later this month, will go ahead.