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Trump’s latest threat to introduce an additional complete levy on Chinese goods has been described as a “classic case” of American hypocrisy, as stated by the Chinese government.

A official from China’s Commerce Ministry also stated that the nation could introduce its own unrevealed “responsive actions” if the US President executes his threat, adding that the country was “fearless” of a looming trade war.

This past Friday, the former president responded at Beijing’s move to strengthen its rules for exports of rare earth minerals, accusing the Chinese leadership of “adopting a confrontational stance” and attempting to hold the international market “captive”.

Furthermore, he vowed to cancel a planned talks with China’s President Xi, which was expected to take place during a meeting in Seoul before the month ends.

His statements on last Friday rattled stock exchanges, with the S&P 500 falling by 2.7%, marking its steepest fall since April.

His comments revived fears of a trade conflict between the US and China.

In May, the both nations had agreed to remove triple-digit tariffs on each other’s imports, which had led to concerns of commerce ceasing between the economic powers.

This left, US tariffs on Chinese goods facing an additional 30% levy compared with the year’s onset, while American products entering the Chinese market incur a import levy.

China’s latest remarks – issued by the relevant government department in the form of formal replies to media inquiries – reflected language from the zenith of the latest commercial tensions.

Officials denounced American limits on exports on electronic components while supporting the country’s own restrictions on exports on rare earth minerals as “standard procedures” to ensure domestic safety and that of every country.

The spokesperson remarked that for “a long time”, the America had “broadened the definition” of domestic safety, misused overseas sale restrictions and “enforced” discriminatory practices against China.

“Using” trade levy ultimatums is not the right way to interact with the Chinese government,” their representative said.

“China’s position on a tariff war has always been steady: we do not want one, but we are fearless of one.”

Last week, Beijing announced it was reinforcing overseas sale regulations on rare earths and additional substances critical for advanced tech manufacturing.

The action was viewed as a significant step, as the state handles about 90% of the planet’s critical minerals, which are employed in products such as renewable energy components and smartphones.

Latest statements from Washington and Beijing are being interpreted by analysts as a strategy of bolstering negotiating stances in preparation for upcoming negotiations.

Is not yet known whether a meeting between Trump and Xi Jinping, scheduled at a summit in South Korea later this month, will go ahead.