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Trump’s latest ultimatum to introduce an additional complete levy on Chinese goods has been labeled a “typical example” of United States’ contradictory behavior, per the China’s leadership.

A representative of the ministry also stated that China could enact its own unspecified “responsive actions” if the White House occupant carries out his threat, noting that the country was “not afraid” of a possible trade conflict.

On Friday, Donald Trump hit back at China’s decision to strengthen its rules for overseas sales of critical elements, accusing China of “adopting a confrontational stance” and attempting to hold the world “under its control”.

Furthermore, he vowed to withdraw from a planned talks with China’s President Xi, which was expected to take place during a conference in the Republic of Korea later this month.

Trump’s comments on Friday shook global markets, with the S&P 500 share index falling by 2.7%, marking its steepest fall since last spring.

His comments reignited concerns of a trade conflict between the US and China.

Earlier this year, the two sides had reached an agreement to drop triple-digit tariffs on each other’s goods, which had raised the prospect of trade halting between the economic powers.

Consequently, American import duties on Chinese imports incurring an additional 30% levy compared with the year’s onset, while items from the United States entering the country incur a ten percent duty.

The most recent comments from China – released by the Commerce Ministry in the manner of written responses to journalist’s questions – echoed language from the zenith of the recent trade conflict.

They criticised American limits on exports on semiconductors and chips while defending Beijing’s export controls on rare earth minerals as “standard procedures” to ensure state interests and that of all nations.

The official remarked that for “many years”, the US had “overstretched the concept of state security, exploited export control measures and “implemented” discriminatory practices against Beijing.

“Turning to” import duty warnings is not the right way to engage with Beijing,” the spokesperson stated.

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

Last week, the Chinese government declared it was reinforcing foreign shipment restrictions on rare earths and further resources essential to high-technology production.

The action was viewed as a significant step, as the state refines about the vast majority of the planet’s critical minerals, which are utilized in items such as photovoltaic modules and smartphones.

Latest statements from Washington and Beijing are being viewed by observers as a method of strengthening positions in preparation for upcoming negotiations.

It is unclear whether a summit between Trump and President Xi, planned at a conference in South Korea before month’s end, will still proceed.