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The former US president’s most recent threat to impose an extra full import duty on items imported from China has been labeled a “prime illustration” of United States’ contradictory behavior, as stated by the Chinese government.

A Commerce Ministry spokesperson further commented that Beijing could introduce its own unspecified “responsive actions” if the White House occupant carries out his threat, noting that the country was “not afraid” of a possible commercial battle.

Last Friday, Donald Trump responded at China’s decision to reinforce its rules for foreign shipments of rare earth minerals, charging the Chinese leadership of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the world “hostage”.

Additionally, he warned to cancel a planned meeting with Chinese leader President Xi, which was set for a summit in the Republic of Korea later this month.

The former president’s remarks on Friday shook financial markets, with the S&P 500 dropping over two and a half percent, marking its largest decline since last spring.

The president’s words reignited fears of a commercial dispute between the US and China.

In May, the two sides had reached an agreement to remove significant levies on each other’s imports, which had created the possibility of commerce ceasing between the two countries.

As a result, American import duties on Chinese goods incurring an extra 30% levy compared with the year’s onset, while American products entering China face a import levy.

The most recent comments from China – issued by the Ministry of Commerce in the manner of official answers to media inquiries – echoed terminology from the peak of the ongoing trade dispute.

The remarks condemned American limits on exports on electronic components while defending China’s own restrictions on exports on rare earth minerals as “normal actions” to safeguard domestic safety and that of all nations.

The official stated that for “a long time”, the US had “expanded the interpretation” of national security, misused export control measures and “implemented” discriminatory practices against the Chinese nation.

“Resorting to tariff threats is not the right way to deal with China,” the spokesperson said.

“The nation’s view” on a tariff war has always been consistent: we are not seeking one, but we are fearless of one.”

Recently, the Chinese government announced it was tightening foreign shipment restrictions on key elements and additional substances essential to high-technology production.

This move was regarded as a important measure, as the country handles about 90% of the planet’s critical minerals, which are utilized in goods such as renewable energy components and handheld devices.

The recent comments from the US and China are being interpreted by some as a method of bolstering negotiating stances in preparation for forthcoming discussions.

It is unclear whether a meeting between Donald Trump and China’s leader, planned at a high-level meeting in Seoul later this month, will still proceed.