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Trump’s latest ultimatum to enforce an extra full import duty on items imported from China has been described as a “typical example” of US double standards, as stated by the Chinese government.

A official from China’s Commerce Ministry also stated that the nation could enact its own undisclosed “responsive actions” if the American leader carries out his threat, adding that the country was “not afraid” of a possible trade conflict.

On Friday, Donald Trump retaliated at China’s decision to tighten its rules for overseas sales of rare earths, charging Beijing of “adopting a confrontational stance” and attempting to hold the global community “under its control”.

Furthermore, he threatened to pull out of a planned meeting with China’s President President Xi, which was arranged for a meeting in Seoul before the month ends.

His statements on last Friday shook global markets, with the S&P 500 dropping 2.7%, marking its largest decline since earlier this year.

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

In May, the both nations had reached an agreement to remove high import duties on each other’s products, which had led to concerns of trade halting between the economic powers.

This left, United States levies on products from China incurring an added import tax compared with the start of the year, while items from the United States entering China face a 10% tariff.

China’s latest remarks – issued by the Commerce Ministry in the manner of formal replies to press queries – mirrored rhetoric from the height of the recent trade conflict.

The remarks condemned US export restrictions on semiconductors and chips while justifying China’s own restrictions on exports on rare earth minerals as “standard procedures” to protect domestic safety and that of every country.

The spokesperson remarked that for “many years”, the US had “expanded the interpretation” of domestic safety, exploited overseas sale restrictions and “adopted biased policies against China.

“Resorting to trade levy ultimatums is not the correct approach to interact with the Chinese government,” the official said.

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

Last week, the Chinese government announced it was reinforcing overseas sale regulations on key elements and additional substances critical for cutting-edge industry.

This move was regarded as a significant step, as the nation handles about 90% of the global rare earth supply, which are utilized in items such as photovoltaic modules and handheld devices.

The recent comments from both governments are being viewed by some as a method of strengthening positions prior to forthcoming discussions.

Remains uncertain whether a summit between Trump and President Xi, planned at a summit in the Republic of Korea before month’s end, will go ahead.