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The former US president’s latest warning to introduce an further 100% tariff on Chinese goods has been labeled a “typical example” of US double standards, as stated by the Chinese government.

A official from China’s Commerce Ministry also stated that China could enact its own unspecified “countermeasures” if the American leader executes his warning, noting that the country was “unafraid” of a looming trade conflict.

Last Friday, the former president retaliated at Beijing’s move to reinforce its rules for overseas sales of critical elements, alleging the Chinese leadership of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the world “captive”.

He also warned to withdraw from a planned talks with Chinese leader Xi, which was arranged for a meeting in Seoul in the coming weeks.

Trump’s comments on last Friday unsettled stock exchanges, with the S&P 500 falling by over two and a half percent, marking its biggest drop since last spring.

These statements revived fears of a trade conflict between the two economic giants.

This past spring, the respective governments had agreed to drop triple-digit tariffs on each other’s imports, which had led to concerns of commerce ceasing between the two nations.

This left, United States levies on Chinese imports subject to an extra thirty percent tariff compared with the beginning of 2025, while American products entering China face a ten percent duty.

The most recent comments from China – released by the Commerce Ministry in the manner of formal replies to media inquiries – echoed terminology from the zenith of the recent trade conflict.

Officials denounced US export restrictions on semiconductors and chips while justifying China’s own export controls on rare earths as “standard procedures” to ensure domestic safety and that of every country.

The official remarked that for “many years”, the US had “expanded the interpretation” of state security, misused overseas sale restrictions and “enforced” biased policies against China.

“Using” trade levy ultimatums is not the proper method to deal with China,” their representative commented.

“China’s position on a trade conflict has always been unchanging: we do not want one, but we are not afraid of one.”

The previous week, China revealed it was strengthening overseas sale regulations on key elements and additional substances critical for cutting-edge industry.

This was seen as a significant step, as the nation processes about ninety percent of the planet’s critical minerals, which are utilized in products such as solar panels and mobile phones.

Latest statements from both governments are being seen by some as a method of enhancing bargaining power ahead of forthcoming discussions.

Is not yet known whether a talks between Trump and President Xi, scheduled at a summit in South Korea in the coming weeks, will take place as planned.