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Donald Trump’s latest threat to enforce an extra full import duty on products from China has been called a “prime illustration” of US double standards, per the Beijing administration.

A Commerce Ministry spokesperson also stated that China could enact its own undisclosed “countermeasures” if the US President carries out his pledge, emphasizing that the country was “fearless” of a potential commercial battle.

On Friday, Donald Trump retaliated at Beijing’s move to strengthen its rules for foreign shipments of critical elements, alleging China of “turning aggressive” and attempting to hold the world “captive”.

He also vowed to cancel a arranged talks with China’s President President Xi, which was set for a meeting in the Republic of Korea before the month ends.

His statements on that day unsettled global markets, with the benchmark US stock index falling by nearly three percent, marking its biggest drop since April.

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

This past spring, the both nations had consented to drop high import duties on each other’s goods, which had created the possibility of trade halting between the economic powers.

As a result, American import duties on products from China subject to an extra import tax compared with the start of the year, while items from the United States entering China are subject to a import levy.

Beijing’s recent statements – published by the relevant government department in the format of formal replies to journalist’s questions – echoed rhetoric from the height of the ongoing trade dispute.

Officials denounced American limits on exports on electronic components while supporting the country’s own restrictions on exports on rare earths as “normal actions” to safeguard state interests and that of the global community.

The official remarked that for “a long time”, the United States had “broadened the definition” of state security, misused export control measures and “adopted discriminatory practices against China.

“Turning to” trade levy ultimatums is not the proper method to engage with Beijing,” the official commented.

“China’s position on a trade conflict has consistently been consistent: we are not seeking one, but we are fearless of one.”

The previous week, Beijing declared it was reinforcing export controls on rare earths and further resources critical for advanced tech manufacturing.

The action was viewed as a important measure, as the state handles about ninety percent of the planet’s critical minerals, which are utilized in goods such as solar panels and smartphones.

The recent comments from Washington and Beijing are being viewed by some as a means of enhancing bargaining power prior to forthcoming discussions.

It is unclear whether a summit between Trump and President Xi, scheduled at a high-level meeting in Seoul before month’s end, will still proceed.