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Trump’s latest ultimatum to introduce an further 100% tariff on products from China has been called a “prime illustration” of United States’ contradictory behavior, as stated by the Chinese government.

A official from China’s Commerce Ministry further commented that the nation could enact its own undisclosed “countermeasures” if the American leader follows through on his pledge, adding that the country was “fearless” of a looming trade conflict.

Last Friday, Donald Trump retaliated at China’s decision to strengthen its policies for exports of rare earth minerals, charging China of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the global community “hostage”.

He also threatened to withdraw from a planned talks with China’s President Xi, which was expected to take place during a meeting in Seoul later this month.

The former president’s remarks on last Friday shook stock exchanges, with the S&P 500 share index dropping over two and a half percent, marking its steepest fall since April.

The president’s words renewed apprehensions of a trade conflict between the two economic giants.

In May, the two sides had reached an agreement to drop triple-digit tariffs on each other’s products, which had led to concerns of trade halting between the economic powers.

This left, US tariffs on products from China facing an extra import tax compared with the start of the year, while items from the United States entering the country face a 10% tariff.

China’s latest remarks – issued by the relevant government department in the format of formal replies to journalist’s questions – echoed language from the peak of the recent trade conflict.

Officials denounced US export restrictions on chips and semi-conductors while supporting the country’s own restrictions on exports on rare earth minerals as “standard procedures” to protect national security and that of every country.

The spokesperson stated that for “an extended period”, the United States had “broadened the definition” of state security, abused foreign shipment regulations and “enforced” unfair treatments against Beijing.

“Resorting to import duty warnings is not the right way to interact with the Chinese government,” their representative commented.

“China’s position on a tariff war has consistently been unchanging: we do not want one, but we are fearless of one.”

Last week, China revealed it was reinforcing foreign shipment restrictions on rare earths and additional substances vital for cutting-edge industry.

This move was regarded as a significant step, as the nation refines about 90% of the world’s rare earths, which are utilized in products such as renewable energy components and mobile phones.

Latest statements from Washington and Beijing are being interpreted by analysts as a means of bolstering negotiating stances ahead of future trade talks.

Remains uncertain whether a summit between Trump and President Xi, scheduled at a high-level meeting in Seoul in the coming weeks, will go ahead.