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Donald Trump’s latest ultimatum to enforce an additional 100% tariff on Chinese goods has been described as a “prime illustration” of American hypocrisy, as stated by the Beijing administration.

A official from China’s Commerce Ministry further commented that Beijing could implement its own undisclosed “responsive actions” if the American leader carries out his pledge, noting that the country was “unafraid” of a looming trade conflict.

Last Friday, Trump retaliated at China’s decision to reinforce its regulations for foreign shipments of rare earth minerals, accusing Beijing of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the international market “under its control”.

Additionally, he vowed to withdraw from a scheduled talks with Beijing’s head of state Xi, which was expected to take place during a summit in the Republic of Korea later this month.

The former president’s remarks on Friday unsettled stock exchanges, with the benchmark US stock index closing down nearly three percent, marking its steepest fall since April.

His comments reignited concerns of a commercial dispute between the US and China.

Earlier this year, the respective governments had agreed to drop triple-digit tariffs on each other’s products, which had led to concerns of commerce ceasing between the two countries.

Consequently, US tariffs on Chinese imports facing an extra thirty percent tariff compared with the beginning of 2025, while items from the United States entering the Chinese market incur a import levy.

Beijing’s recent statements – issued by the Ministry of Commerce in the format of official answers to media inquiries – mirrored rhetoric from the peak of the recent trade conflict.

They criticised United States controls on semiconductors and chips while supporting the country’s own overseas sale regulations on rare earths as “routine measures” to ensure state interests and that of the global community.

The spokesperson remarked that for “a long time”, the US had “overstretched the concept of national security, exploited overseas sale restrictions and “enforced” unfair treatments against the Chinese nation.

“Turning to” trade levy ultimatums is not the correct approach to deal with China,” the spokesperson stated.

“Beijing’s stance” on a tariff war has remained steady: we are not seeking one, but we are fearless of one.”

Last week, Beijing declared it was tightening foreign shipment restrictions on rare earths and additional substances essential to cutting-edge industry.

This move was regarded as a important measure, as the country handles about ninety percent of the global rare earth supply, which are utilized in goods such as renewable energy components and handheld devices.

The recent comments from the US and China are being seen by observers as a means of strengthening positions ahead of future trade talks.

Is not yet known whether a talks between the former president and Xi Jinping, scheduled at a summit in South Korea before month’s end, will take place as planned.