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Donald Trump’s latest warning to introduce an extra 100% tariff on Chinese goods has been labeled a “typical example” of United States’ contradictory behavior, as stated by the China’s leadership.

A Commerce Ministry spokesperson also stated that China could implement its own unrevealed “responsive actions” if the White House occupant follows through on his threat, adding that the country was “not afraid” of a potential trade war.

Last Friday, Donald Trump retaliated at the Chinese government’s action to strengthen its regulations for overseas sales of rare earth minerals, alleging China of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the international market “captive”.

Additionally, he warned to withdraw from a scheduled talks with Chinese leader President Xi, which was expected to take place during a conference in the Republic of Korea in the coming weeks.

Trump’s comments on that day shook global markets, with the S&P 500 share index dropping nearly three percent, marking its steepest fall since April.

The president’s words renewed concerns of a commercial dispute between the United States and China.

This past spring, the both nations had consented to remove high import duties on each other’s products, which had created the possibility of commerce ceasing between the economic powers.

This left, United States levies on Chinese imports incurring an additional import tax compared with the beginning of 2025, while US goods entering the country face a ten percent duty.

China’s latest remarks – published by the Ministry of Commerce in the form of written responses to press queries – mirrored terminology from the peak of the latest commercial tensions.

They criticised United States controls on semiconductors and chips while justifying Beijing’s overseas sale regulations on rare earths as “standard procedures” to safeguard national security and that of every country.

The official said that for “many years”, the US had “expanded the interpretation” of domestic safety, misused foreign shipment regulations and “enforced” discriminatory practices against the Chinese nation.

“Turning to” tariff threats is not the right way to interact with Beijing,” the spokesperson commented.

“China’s position on a trade conflict has always been unchanging: we wish to avoid one, but we are fearless of one.”

Last week, China announced it was strengthening export controls on rare earths and other materials critical for high-technology production.

The action was viewed as a important measure, as the country processes about the vast majority of the planet’s critical minerals, which are utilized in goods such as solar panels and smartphones.

New remarks from Washington and Beijing are being interpreted by analysts as a means of strengthening positions in preparation for future trade talks.

It is unclear whether a talks between Trump and Xi Jinping, expected at a conference in Seoul later this month, will go ahead.