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Donald Trump’s latest ultimatum to impose an further complete levy on items imported from China has been called a “prime illustration” of US double standards, according to the China’s leadership.

A representative of the ministry further commented that China could enact its own unspecified “responsive actions” if the American leader executes his warning, adding that the country was “unafraid” of a potential commercial battle.

On Friday, Trump responded at the Chinese government’s action to reinforce its policies for exports of rare earth minerals, alleging Beijing of “turning aggressive” and attempting to hold the global community “under its control”.

Furthermore, he warned to withdraw from a scheduled talks with Beijing’s head of state President Xi, which was expected to take place during a summit in the Republic of Korea before the month ends.

Trump’s comments on Friday shook stock exchanges, with the S&P 500 share index closing down 2.7%, marking its steepest fall since earlier this year.

His comments reignited apprehensions of a trade conflict between the United States and China.

In May, the respective governments had consented to eliminate significant levies on each other’s imports, which had created the possibility of trade halting between the economic powers.

Consequently, American import duties on products from China subject to an added 30% levy compared with the beginning of 2025, while US goods entering China 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.

The remarks condemned United States controls on chips and semi-conductors while supporting China’s own export controls on key elements as “normal actions” to protect national security and that of all nations.

Their representative remarked that for “a long time”, the US had “expanded the interpretation” of domestic safety, abused overseas sale restrictions and “implemented” discriminatory practices against the Chinese nation.

“Turning to” trade levy ultimatums is not the proper method to deal with the Chinese government,” their representative stated.

“The nation’s view” on a trade conflict has always been unchanging: we are not seeking one, but we are unafraid of one.”

Last week, Beijing revealed it was reinforcing foreign shipment restrictions on rare earths and further resources essential to cutting-edge industry.

This move was regarded as a significant step, as the state handles about 90% of the global rare earth supply, which are used in goods such as solar panels and mobile phones.

New remarks from the US and China are being seen by some as a means of bolstering negotiating stances in preparation for future trade talks.

It is unclear whether a talks between Trump and China’s leader, expected at a conference in South Korea before month’s end, will still proceed.