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The former US president’s most recent threat to impose an further complete levy on products from China has been described as a “classic case” of United States’ contradictory behavior, as stated by the Beijing administration.

A official from China’s Commerce Ministry additionally remarked that the nation could introduce its own undisclosed “retaliatory steps” if the US President follows through on his pledge, emphasizing that the country was “not afraid” of a looming commercial battle.

Last Friday, Trump responded at Beijing’s move to tighten its rules for exports of rare earths, alleging the Chinese leadership of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the world “hostage”.

Additionally, he vowed to cancel a scheduled meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, which was set for a conference in South Korea before the month ends.

Trump’s comments on that day shook stock exchanges, with the benchmark US stock index closing down 2.7%, marking its biggest drop since last spring.

These statements reignited concerns of a trade conflict between the US and China.

Earlier this year, the respective governments had agreed to eliminate high import duties on each other’s goods, which had created the possibility of commerce ceasing between the economic powers.

This left, United States levies on products from China subject to an extra thirty percent tariff compared with the year’s onset, while US goods entering the country are subject to a import levy.

China’s latest remarks – issued by the Ministry of Commerce in the format of official answers to press queries – mirrored language from the height of the ongoing trade dispute.

They criticised American limits on exports on semiconductors and chips while supporting the country’s own restrictions on exports on rare earth minerals as “standard procedures” to safeguard state interests and that of every country.

Their representative said that for “a long time”, the United States had “broadened the definition” of national security, misused overseas sale restrictions and “implemented” unfair treatments against China.

“Using” tariff threats is not the proper method to engage with the Chinese government,” their representative said.

“Beijing’s stance” on a trade conflict has remained consistent: we wish to avoid one, but we are fearless of one.”

The previous week, China announced it was reinforcing export controls on rare earth minerals and other materials essential to cutting-edge industry.

This was seen as a significant step, as the nation processes about 90% of the planet’s critical minerals, which are used in items such as photovoltaic modules and smartphones.

New remarks from both governments are being seen by some as a strategy of bolstering negotiating stances in preparation for future trade talks.

Is not yet known whether a talks between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping, expected at a conference in Seoul later this month, will take place as planned.