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Trump’s latest warning to impose an additional 100% tariff on Chinese goods has been called a “classic case” of American hypocrisy, as stated by the Beijing administration.

A Commerce Ministry spokesperson additionally remarked that Beijing could introduce its own undisclosed “retaliatory steps” if the American leader carries out his threat, noting that the country was “not afraid” of a possible trade war.

On Friday, the former president responded at Beijing’s move to reinforce its rules for overseas sales of critical elements, charging Beijing of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the global community “hostage”.

Additionally, he vowed to withdraw from a planned summit with Beijing’s head of state President Xi, which was set for a summit in South Korea later this month.

His statements on that day unsettled global markets, with the S&P 500 dropping 2.7%, marking its biggest drop since April.

The president’s words revived concerns of a commercial dispute between the two economic giants.

This past spring, the two sides had agreed to drop triple-digit tariffs on each other’s goods, which had led to concerns of bilateral trade stopping between the economic powers.

Consequently, American import duties on Chinese goods subject to an extra 30% levy compared with the year’s onset, while American products entering the Chinese market incur a ten percent duty.

The most recent comments from China – published by the Commerce Ministry in the manner of written responses to press queries – reflected rhetoric from the height of the ongoing trade dispute.

They criticised US export restrictions on electronic components while supporting Beijing’s restrictions on exports on key elements as “normal actions” to safeguard national security and that of the global community.

The spokesperson said that for “many years”, the America had “broadened the definition” of domestic safety, abused overseas sale restrictions and “implemented” discriminatory practices against China.

“Turning to” tariff threats is not the proper method to interact with the Chinese government,” their representative stated.

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

The previous week, China declared it was reinforcing export controls on rare earth minerals and further resources vital for cutting-edge industry.

The action was viewed as a significant step, as the nation refines about ninety percent of the global rare earth supply, which are utilized in items such as solar panels and handheld devices.

The recent comments from the US and China are being interpreted by analysts as a means of enhancing bargaining power in preparation for upcoming negotiations.

Remains uncertain whether a talks between the former president and China’s leader, expected at a high-level meeting in South Korea later this month, will take place as planned.