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Trump’s most recent threat to enforce an additional full import duty on Chinese goods has been described as a “prime illustration” of American hypocrisy, per the China’s leadership.

A official from China’s Commerce Ministry additionally remarked that China could introduce its own unspecified “responsive actions” if the US President follows through on his pledge, adding that the country was “unafraid” of a possible commercial battle.

This past Friday, the former president responded at the Chinese government’s action to reinforce its rules for exports of rare earths, accusing the Chinese leadership of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the international market “captive”.

Furthermore, he threatened to pull out of a scheduled summit with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, which was set for a meeting in South Korea later this month.

His statements on Friday rattled stock exchanges, with the S&P 500 falling by 2.7%, marking its steepest fall since last spring.

His comments reignited concerns of a commercial dispute between the United States and China.

Earlier this year, the respective governments had consented to remove significant levies on each other’s goods, which had created the possibility of commerce ceasing between the two countries.

This left, American import duties on Chinese goods facing an extra 30% levy compared with the year’s onset, while US goods entering the country are subject to a import levy.

China’s latest remarks – issued by the relevant government department in the format of formal replies to journalist’s questions – mirrored terminology from the height of the latest commercial tensions.

Officials denounced US export restrictions on chips and semi-conductors while defending China’s own export controls on rare earths as “routine measures” to safeguard state interests and that of all nations.

Their representative remarked that for “an extended period”, the US had “broadened the definition” of state security, misused overseas sale restrictions and “implemented” biased policies against the Chinese nation.

“Using” tariff threats is not the right way to engage with the Chinese government,” the spokesperson stated.

“The nation’s view” on a tariff war has consistently been consistent: we are not seeking one, but we are unafraid of one.”

Last week, the Chinese government announced it was strengthening export controls on rare earths and further resources critical for high-technology production.

The action was viewed as a important measure, as the state handles about 90% of the planet’s critical minerals, which are used in items such as renewable energy components and handheld devices.

The recent comments from Washington and Beijing are being seen by some as a method of enhancing bargaining power ahead of upcoming negotiations.

Is not yet known whether a meeting between Donald Trump and President Xi, scheduled at a conference in Seoul before month’s end, will go ahead.