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Donald Trump’s most recent warning to enforce an additional full import duty on products from China has been called a “classic case” of US double standards, according to the Beijing administration.

A Commerce Ministry spokesperson also stated that China could introduce its own unrevealed “responsive actions” if the American leader carries out his pledge, emphasizing that the country was “fearless” of a looming trade war.

On Friday, Trump responded at Beijing’s move to tighten its policies for exports of rare earth minerals, charging the Chinese leadership of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the international market “captive”.

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

His statements on last Friday rattled global markets, with the S&P 500 closing down over two and a half percent, marking its biggest drop since last spring.

These statements revived apprehensions of a trade conflict between the US and China.

In May, the both nations had agreed to drop significant levies on each other’s imports, which had led to concerns of trade halting between the economic powers.

Consequently, United States levies on Chinese goods facing an additional 30% levy compared with the start of the year, while American products entering China are subject to a import levy.

Beijing’s recent statements – published by the Ministry of Commerce in the format of official answers to journalist’s questions – mirrored language from the height of the recent trade conflict.

They criticised US export restrictions on chips and semi-conductors while justifying China’s own overseas sale regulations on rare earths as “routine measures” to protect domestic safety and that of every country.

The official remarked that for “a long time”, the US had “broadened the definition” of domestic safety, exploited foreign shipment regulations and “implemented” unfair treatments against China.

“Turning to” trade levy ultimatums is not the correct approach to engage with Beijing,” the official commented.

“Beijing’s stance” on a import duty dispute has consistently been steady: we do not want one, but we are not afraid of one.”

Recently, China declared it was strengthening export controls on rare earths and further resources vital for high-technology production.

This move was regarded as a significant step, as the state processes about ninety percent of the planet’s critical minerals, which are employed in goods such as renewable energy components and mobile phones.

Latest statements from the US and China are being interpreted by analysts as a method of strengthening positions in preparation for future trade talks.

Is not yet known whether a talks between the former president and Xi Jinping, scheduled at a summit in the Republic of Korea before month’s end, will still proceed.