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Donald Trump’s most recent ultimatum to enforce an additional 100% tariff on products from China has been described as a “classic case” of US double standards, as stated by the Beijing administration.

A representative of the ministry further commented that the nation could enact its own undisclosed “responsive actions” if the US President carries out his pledge, emphasizing that the country was “not afraid” of a possible commercial battle.

On Friday, the former president retaliated at China’s decision to reinforce its regulations for exports of rare earths, accusing Beijing of “turning aggressive” and attempting to hold the international market “hostage”.

Furthermore, he warned to withdraw from a scheduled meeting with Chinese leader Xi, which was arranged for a conference in South Korea in the coming weeks.

The former president’s remarks on Friday shook global markets, with the S&P 500 closing down 2.7%, marking its steepest fall since April.

His comments revived apprehensions of a commercial dispute between the US and China.

Earlier this year, the respective governments had agreed to eliminate high import duties on each other’s goods, which had led to concerns of commerce ceasing between the economic powers.

Consequently, United States levies on Chinese goods subject to an added thirty percent tariff compared with the start of the year, while US goods entering the Chinese market incur a 10% tariff.

Beijing’s recent statements – published by the relevant government department in the manner of formal replies to media inquiries – mirrored language from the peak of the latest commercial tensions.

Officials denounced United States controls on electronic components while supporting China’s own export controls on rare earth minerals as “standard procedures” to safeguard domestic safety and that of the global community.

The spokesperson said that for “a long time”, the America had “overstretched the concept of domestic safety, misused export control measures and “enforced” unfair treatments against Beijing.

“Turning to” trade levy ultimatums is not the right way to engage with China,” their representative said.

“The nation’s view” on a trade conflict has consistently been steady: we do not want one, but we are fearless of one.”

Last week, Beijing announced it was reinforcing foreign shipment restrictions on rare earths and additional substances essential to cutting-edge industry.

The action was viewed as a important measure, as the state processes about 90% of the world’s rare earths, which are employed in goods such as photovoltaic modules and mobile phones.

The recent comments from both governments are being seen by some as a means of enhancing bargaining power in preparation for forthcoming discussions.

Is not yet known whether a summit between the former president and President Xi, scheduled at a high-level meeting in Seoul in the coming weeks, will still proceed.