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Trump’s latest ultimatum to impose an extra complete levy on items imported from China has been described as a “classic case” of United States’ contradictory behavior, according to the Chinese government.

A representative of the ministry also stated that the nation could enact its own unspecified “responsive actions” if the American leader follows through on his threat, emphasizing that the country was “not afraid” of a looming trade conflict.

Last Friday, Trump retaliated at China’s decision to tighten its policies for exports of rare earths, charging Beijing of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the world “under its control”.

Furthermore, he threatened to cancel a arranged meeting with Chinese leader Xi, which was set for a conference in Seoul later this month.

His statements on Friday rattled stock exchanges, with the S&P 500 share index closing down over two and a half percent, marking its largest decline since earlier this year.

His comments revived apprehensions of a trade war between the two economic giants.

This past spring, the both nations had reached an agreement to eliminate high import duties on each other’s products, which had raised the prospect of commerce ceasing between the two nations.

As a result, American import duties on products from China subject to an additional 30% levy compared with the start of the year, while American products entering China are subject to a import levy.

Beijing’s recent statements – published by the Ministry of Commerce in the format of formal replies to media inquiries – mirrored language from the zenith of the recent trade conflict.

They criticised US export restrictions on semiconductors and chips while supporting the country’s own export controls on rare earths as “routine measures” to ensure national security and that of every country.

The official stated that for “a long time”, the America had “broadened the definition” of national security, exploited export control measures and “implemented” biased policies against the Chinese nation.

“Turning to” import duty warnings is not the right way to interact with the Chinese government,” their representative stated.

“The nation’s view” on a import duty dispute has always been unchanging: we do not want one, but we are not afraid of one.”

The previous week, Beijing announced it was reinforcing foreign shipment restrictions on key elements and further resources critical for cutting-edge industry.

This move was regarded as a significant step, as the country processes about 90% of the global rare earth supply, which are utilized in products such as renewable energy components and handheld devices.

The recent comments from the US and China are being seen by some as a method of enhancing bargaining power ahead of future trade talks.

It is unclear whether a meeting between Donald Trump and China’s leader, expected at a conference in the Republic of Korea in the coming weeks, will go ahead.