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Donald Trump’s most recent warning to introduce an further complete levy on items imported from China has been called a “prime illustration” of US double standards, per the Beijing administration.

A representative of the ministry additionally remarked that Beijing could introduce its own unspecified “responsive actions” if the US President executes his pledge, adding that the country was “fearless” of a potential trade war.

Last Friday, Trump hit back at the Chinese government’s action to strengthen its rules for foreign shipments of critical elements, alleging China of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the global community “under its control”.

Furthermore, he threatened to cancel a scheduled talks with China’s President President Xi, which was set for a meeting in South Korea in the coming weeks.

His statements on Friday rattled stock exchanges, with the S&P 500 closing down 2.7%, marking its largest decline since earlier this year.

His comments reignited apprehensions of a trade conflict between the United States and China.

In May, the both nations had consented to remove high import duties on each other’s imports, which had created the possibility of commerce ceasing between the two countries.

Consequently, US tariffs on Chinese imports subject to an extra import tax compared with the year’s onset, while items from the United States entering the Chinese market incur a import levy.

The most recent comments from China – released by the Ministry of Commerce in the form of formal replies to journalist’s questions – reflected rhetoric from the zenith of the recent trade conflict.

They criticised US export restrictions on chips and semi-conductors while supporting Beijing’s overseas sale regulations on rare earth minerals as “normal actions” to ensure domestic safety and that of the global community.

The spokesperson stated that for “an extended period”, the US had “overstretched the concept of national security, exploited foreign shipment regulations and “implemented” unfair treatments against Beijing.

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

“The nation’s view” on a trade conflict has remained unchanging: we do not want one, but we are fearless of one.”

Last week, the Chinese government revealed it was reinforcing foreign shipment restrictions on rare earths and additional substances critical for high-technology production.

The action was viewed as a important measure, as the nation handles about ninety percent of the world’s rare earths, which are used in goods such as solar panels and mobile phones.

The recent comments from both governments are being viewed by observers as a means of bolstering negotiating stances prior to forthcoming discussions.

Remains uncertain whether a talks between Trump and Xi Jinping, expected at a summit in the Republic of Korea later this month, will still proceed.