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Donald Trump’s latest ultimatum to introduce an further full import duty on products from China has been called a “classic case” of US double standards, per the China’s leadership.

A Commerce Ministry spokesperson also stated that the nation could enact its own unspecified “responsive actions” if the White House occupant carries out his warning, adding that the country was “unafraid” of a possible trade conflict.

On Friday, Donald Trump hit back at Beijing’s move to reinforce its policies for foreign shipments of critical elements, alleging China of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the global community “captive”.

Additionally, he threatened to pull out of a arranged meeting with Chinese leader President Xi, which was set for a meeting in South Korea before the month ends.

The former president’s remarks on Friday shook stock exchanges, with the S&P 500 dropping nearly three percent, marking its steepest fall since earlier this year.

These statements reignited apprehensions of a trade war between the United States and China.

In May, the both nations had agreed to eliminate triple-digit tariffs on each other’s products, which had raised the prospect of bilateral trade stopping between the two nations.

Consequently, US tariffs on products from China incurring an extra import tax compared with the year’s onset, while American products entering the Chinese market are subject to a 10% tariff.

China’s latest remarks – released by the Commerce Ministry in the form of official answers to media inquiries – reflected terminology from the peak of the recent trade conflict.

Officials denounced US export restrictions on chips and semi-conductors while defending the country’s own export controls on rare earths as “standard procedures” to ensure domestic safety and that of the global community.

The official remarked that for “many years”, the America had “broadened the definition” of national security, misused foreign shipment regulations and “enforced” discriminatory practices against the Chinese nation.

“Using” tariff threats is not the proper method to interact with Beijing,” the spokesperson stated.

“China’s position on a import duty dispute has always been unchanging: we are not seeking one, but we are unafraid of one.”

Last week, Beijing announced it was tightening overseas sale regulations on rare earths and further resources vital for cutting-edge industry.

The action was viewed as a significant step, as the nation processes about the vast majority of the planet’s critical minerals, which are used in products such as renewable energy components and smartphones.

Latest statements from the US and China are being seen by analysts as a method of bolstering negotiating stances ahead of future trade talks.

It is unclear whether a summit between Donald Trump and President Xi, expected at a high-level meeting in Seoul before month’s end, will take place as planned.