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Trump’s latest ultimatum to introduce an additional complete levy on products from China has been called a “typical example” of American hypocrisy, per the Chinese government.

A Commerce Ministry spokesperson further commented that Beijing could enact its own unspecified “countermeasures” if the White House occupant carries out his pledge, noting that the country was “not afraid” of a possible trade conflict.

On Friday, Donald Trump hit back at the Chinese government’s action to reinforce its policies for exports of rare earths, charging China of “adopting a confrontational stance” and attempting to hold the global community “captive”.

Furthermore, he threatened to withdraw from a arranged meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, which was arranged for a meeting in Seoul later this month.

Trump’s comments on last Friday rattled global markets, with the S&P 500 closing down 2.7%, marking its steepest fall since April.

The president’s words reignited apprehensions of a trade conflict between the two economic giants.

Earlier this year, the both nations had consented to drop triple-digit tariffs on each other’s imports, which had raised the prospect of commerce ceasing between the economic powers.

Consequently, US tariffs on Chinese imports subject to an added 30% levy compared with the year’s onset, while American products entering China incur a 10% tariff.

Beijing’s recent statements – issued by the relevant government department in the manner of formal replies to journalist’s questions – echoed rhetoric from the height of the recent trade conflict.

Officials denounced US export restrictions on chips and semi-conductors while defending China’s own overseas sale regulations on rare earths as “normal actions” to safeguard state interests and that of the global community.

The spokesperson said that for “many years”, the US had “expanded the interpretation” of national security, abused overseas sale restrictions and “implemented” biased policies against Beijing.

“Turning to” import duty warnings is not the correct approach to engage with Beijing,” the official commented.

“The nation’s view” on a import duty dispute has remained consistent: we wish to avoid one, but we are not afraid of one.”

Last week, the Chinese government revealed it was reinforcing export controls on key elements and other materials vital for high-technology production.

This move was regarded as a significant step, as the country processes about ninety percent of the global rare earth supply, which are employed in goods such as solar panels and smartphones.

The recent comments from Washington and Beijing are being viewed by some as a strategy of bolstering negotiating stances prior to future trade talks.

Is not yet known whether a talks between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping, expected at a high-level meeting in Seoul later this month, will take place as planned.