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The former US president’s latest threat to enforce an further complete levy on products from China has been described as a “classic case” of US double standards, as stated by the Chinese government.

A Commerce Ministry spokesperson additionally remarked that China could introduce its own unspecified “countermeasures” if the White House occupant follows through on his threat, noting that the country was “not afraid” of a potential trade conflict.

This past Friday, Donald Trump hit back at China’s decision to strengthen its policies for foreign shipments of rare earth minerals, charging Beijing of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the world “hostage”.

Furthermore, he warned to withdraw from a planned summit with Chinese leader President Xi, which was expected to take place during a conference in South Korea in the coming weeks.

The former president’s remarks on Friday shook 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 reignited concerns of a commercial dispute between the two economic giants.

In May, the two sides had agreed to eliminate significant levies on each other’s imports, which had created the possibility of commerce ceasing between the two nations.

As a result, United States levies on products from China incurring an extra 30% levy compared with the start of the year, while US goods entering China are subject to a ten percent duty.

China’s latest remarks – published by the Ministry of Commerce in the format of official answers to media inquiries – echoed rhetoric from the height of the ongoing trade dispute.

The remarks condemned United States controls on electronic components while justifying China’s own overseas sale regulations on rare earths as “standard procedures” to safeguard domestic safety and that of all nations.

The official stated that for “a long time”, the US had “broadened the definition” of domestic safety, misused overseas sale restrictions and “adopted discriminatory practices against China.

“Turning to” trade levy ultimatums is not the proper method to deal with the Chinese government,” the spokesperson stated.

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

The previous week, Beijing revealed it was strengthening export controls on rare earth minerals and additional substances essential to advanced tech manufacturing.

This was seen as a important measure, as the country handles about 90% of the planet’s critical minerals, which are employed in goods such as solar panels and mobile phones.

The recent comments from the US and China are being viewed by some as a means of bolstering negotiating stances prior to upcoming negotiations.

It is unclear whether a talks between Trump and Xi Jinping, planned at a high-level meeting in the Republic of Korea in the coming weeks, will still proceed.