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The former US president’s newest warning to impose an further complete levy on Chinese goods has been called a “prime illustration” of American hypocrisy, according to the Beijing administration.

A representative of the ministry further commented that Beijing could introduce its own unspecified “responsive actions” if the US President follows through on his pledge, noting that the country was “not afraid” of a possible trade conflict.

This past Friday, Trump hit back at the Chinese government’s action to strengthen its rules for overseas sales of critical elements, accusing Beijing of “adopting a confrontational stance” and attempting to hold the world “captive”.

Furthermore, he vowed to cancel a scheduled talks with Beijing’s head of state President Xi, which was set for a summit in the Republic of Korea before the month ends.

The former president’s remarks on that day unsettled global markets, with the S&P 500 closing down over two and a half percent, marking its biggest drop since last spring.

His comments revived fears of a commercial dispute between the two economic giants.

Earlier this year, the respective governments had consented to eliminate high import duties on each other’s goods, which had created the possibility of commerce ceasing between the economic powers.

Consequently, American import duties on Chinese imports facing an added 30% levy compared with the start of the year, while American products entering the country are subject to a ten percent duty.

Beijing’s recent statements – issued by the Commerce Ministry in the form of written responses to media inquiries – mirrored terminology from the height of the latest commercial tensions.

The remarks condemned US export restrictions on chips and semi-conductors while supporting the country’s own export controls on rare earth minerals as “standard procedures” to safeguard domestic safety and that of every country.

The official said that for “an extended period”, the America had “broadened the definition” of national security, exploited foreign shipment regulations and “adopted unfair treatments against the Chinese nation.

“Using” tariff threats is not the right way to engage with Beijing,” the spokesperson said.

“China’s position on a trade conflict has remained consistent: we are not seeking one, but we are fearless of one.”

Last week, the Chinese government announced it was tightening export controls on rare earths and additional substances essential to high-technology production.

The action was viewed as a key move, as the nation processes about ninety percent of the world’s rare earths, which are utilized in items such as renewable energy components and smartphones.

New remarks from Washington and Beijing are being viewed by some as a method of strengthening positions in preparation for upcoming negotiations.

Remains uncertain whether a summit between the former president and Xi Jinping, scheduled at a conference in the Republic of Korea in the coming weeks, will still proceed.