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Donald Trump’s latest ultimatum to enforce an further complete levy on Chinese goods has been labeled a “prime illustration” of US double standards, per the Chinese government.

A official from China’s Commerce Ministry additionally remarked that Beijing could implement its own unspecified “responsive actions” if the White House occupant follows through on his threat, noting that the country was “fearless” of a potential trade war.

This past Friday, the former president responded at Beijing’s move to reinforce its rules for overseas sales of critical elements, alleging China of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the international market “under its control”.

He also warned to pull out of a scheduled meeting with China’s President President Xi, which was arranged for a conference in South Korea before the month ends.

The former president’s remarks on last Friday shook global markets, with the S&P 500 closing down over two and a half percent, marking its biggest drop since earlier this year.

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

Earlier this year, the both nations had consented to remove high import duties on each other’s products, which had led to concerns of commerce ceasing between the two countries.

Consequently, American import duties on Chinese imports incurring an added 30% levy compared with the year’s onset, while items from the United States entering China face a import levy.

The most recent comments from China – released by the Commerce Ministry in the format of written responses to journalist’s questions – reflected rhetoric from the peak of the recent trade conflict.

Officials denounced United States controls on electronic components while supporting Beijing’s restrictions on exports on rare earths as “routine measures” to safeguard state interests and that of every country.

Their representative said that for “a long time”, the US had “broadened the definition” of state security, misused foreign shipment regulations and “enforced” discriminatory practices against China.

“Turning to” import duty warnings is not the proper method to interact with China,” the official stated.

“The nation’s view” on a trade conflict has consistently been steady: we are not seeking one, but we are fearless of one.”

The previous week, Beijing declared it was tightening overseas sale regulations on rare earths and further resources essential to cutting-edge industry.

This move was regarded as a key move, as the state handles about ninety percent of the global rare earth supply, which are utilized in items such as photovoltaic modules and smartphones.

Latest statements from Washington and Beijing are being seen by observers as a method of strengthening positions in preparation for forthcoming discussions.

It is unclear whether a summit between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping, scheduled at a conference in the Republic of Korea later this month, will still proceed.