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Donald Trump’s most recent warning to impose an further full import duty on products from China has been labeled a “prime illustration” of United States’ contradictory behavior, per the China’s leadership.

A representative of the ministry also stated that the nation could introduce its own undisclosed “retaliatory steps” if the US President carries out his threat, adding that the country was “fearless” of a potential commercial battle.

This past Friday, the former president retaliated at China’s decision to strengthen its policies for foreign shipments of rare earth minerals, alleging China of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the international market “under its control”.

Additionally, he vowed to withdraw from a planned summit with Chinese leader Xi, which was arranged for a meeting in South Korea in the coming weeks.

His statements on that day shook stock exchanges, with the S&P 500 falling by nearly three percent, marking its steepest fall since last spring.

The president’s words revived apprehensions of a trade war between the United States and China.

Earlier this year, the both nations had agreed to eliminate significant levies on each other’s products, which had led to concerns of commerce ceasing between the economic powers.

Consequently, American import duties on Chinese imports facing an added import tax compared with the start of the year, while US goods entering the Chinese market are subject to a 10% tariff.

The most recent comments from China – published by the relevant government department in the manner of written responses to press queries – mirrored language from the peak of the latest commercial tensions.

They criticised United States controls on chips and semi-conductors while justifying Beijing’s overseas sale regulations on rare earth minerals as “routine measures” to safeguard national security and that of all nations.

The official stated that for “an extended period”, the America had “expanded the interpretation” of national security, misused export control measures and “enforced” unfair treatments against the Chinese nation.

“Turning to” trade levy ultimatums is not the right way to deal with China,” the official commented.

“The nation’s view” on a trade conflict has always been steady: we do not want one, but we are not afraid of one.”

Recently, the Chinese government announced it was tightening foreign shipment restrictions on key elements and other materials critical for advanced tech manufacturing.

The action was viewed as a significant step, as the state processes about the vast majority of the world’s rare earths, which are used in items such as photovoltaic modules and handheld devices.

The recent comments from both governments are being viewed by analysts as a method of bolstering negotiating stances prior to upcoming negotiations.

It is unclear whether a meeting between Donald Trump and China’s leader, expected at a summit in Seoul in the coming weeks, will go ahead.