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Trump’s most recent threat to introduce an additional complete levy on items imported from China has been described as a “typical example” of American hypocrisy, per the Chinese government.

A Commerce Ministry spokesperson further commented that Beijing could introduce its own unrevealed “responsive actions” if the US President executes his threat, noting that the country was “not afraid” of a potential commercial battle.

This past Friday, the former president hit back at Beijing’s move to tighten its regulations for exports of rare earth minerals, alleging China of “turning aggressive” and attempting to hold the global community “hostage”.

He also vowed to withdraw from a arranged talks with China’s President President Xi, which was expected to take place during a summit in Seoul in the coming weeks.

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

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

This past spring, the two sides had reached an agreement to remove triple-digit tariffs on each other’s goods, which had led to concerns of commerce ceasing between the two nations.

Consequently, US tariffs on Chinese imports incurring an extra import tax compared with the year’s onset, while US goods entering the country are subject to a ten percent duty.

Beijing’s recent statements – issued by the Ministry of Commerce in the format of formal replies to media inquiries – reflected rhetoric from the peak of the recent trade conflict.

Officials denounced American limits on exports on electronic components while defending Beijing’s restrictions on exports on rare earths as “normal actions” to safeguard domestic safety and that of every country.

The spokesperson said that for “a long time”, the US had “expanded the interpretation” of domestic safety, exploited foreign shipment regulations and “implemented” biased policies against China.

“Using” trade levy ultimatums is not the correct approach to engage with the Chinese government,” the spokesperson commented.

“Beijing’s stance” on a trade conflict has remained consistent: we do not want one, but we are not afraid of one.”

Recently, Beijing revealed it was reinforcing overseas sale regulations on rare earth minerals and other materials critical for cutting-edge industry.

This move was regarded as a important measure, as the state refines about 90% of the planet’s critical minerals, which are employed in items such as renewable energy components and smartphones.

The recent comments from both governments are being viewed by analysts as a means of strengthening positions prior to future trade talks.

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