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Trump’s most recent warning to enforce an additional full import duty on items imported from China has been described as a “prime illustration” of United States’ contradictory behavior, per the Beijing administration.

A representative of the ministry additionally remarked that Beijing could introduce its own unrevealed “retaliatory steps” if the American leader follows through on his threat, noting that the country was “not afraid” of a looming trade conflict.

This past Friday, Trump responded at China’s decision to strengthen its regulations for foreign shipments of rare earth minerals, alleging China of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the world “captive”.

He also warned to cancel a planned meeting with Chinese leader Xi, which was set for a meeting in South Korea before the month ends.

The former president’s remarks on Friday unsettled financial markets, with the S&P 500 dropping 2.7%, marking its steepest fall since April.

His comments reignited concerns of a commercial dispute between the two economic giants.

Earlier this year, the two sides had agreed to drop significant levies on each other’s goods, which had led to concerns of bilateral trade stopping between the two countries.

This left, US tariffs on products from China facing an added 30% levy compared with the start of the year, while items from the United States entering the country face a 10% tariff.

China’s latest remarks – published by the relevant government department in the manner of written responses to press queries – reflected rhetoric from the height of the latest commercial tensions.

Officials denounced American limits on exports on semiconductors and chips while supporting Beijing’s overseas sale regulations on rare earths as “routine measures” to ensure state interests and that of every country.

Their representative remarked that for “a long time”, the United States had “expanded the interpretation” of state security, exploited foreign shipment regulations and “enforced” discriminatory practices against Beijing.

“Using” tariff threats is not the right way to deal with the Chinese government,” the official stated.

“China’s position on a tariff war has consistently been steady: we wish to avoid one, but we are fearless of one.”

Last week, China declared it was tightening export controls on key elements and other materials vital for high-technology production.

This move was regarded as a important measure, as the state processes about ninety percent of the planet’s critical minerals, which are used in items such as photovoltaic modules and smartphones.

The recent comments from the US and China are being seen by observers as a method of enhancing bargaining power in preparation for upcoming negotiations.

Is not yet known whether a summit between Trump and China’s leader, expected at a conference in Seoul later this month, will still proceed.