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The former US president’s newest threat to introduce an additional complete levy on products from China has been described as a “typical example” of US double standards, as stated by the China’s leadership.

A representative of the ministry also stated that China could introduce its own undisclosed “countermeasures” if the American leader carries out his threat, noting that the country was “unafraid” of a looming trade conflict.

Last Friday, the former president hit back at China’s decision to tighten its regulations for overseas sales of rare earth minerals, accusing the Chinese leadership of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the global community “under its control”.

Furthermore, he warned to cancel a planned summit with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, which was expected to take place during a meeting in Seoul before the month ends.

The former president’s remarks on that day rattled stock exchanges, with the benchmark US stock index dropping nearly three percent, marking its largest decline since last spring.

The president’s words reignited concerns of a commercial dispute between the United States and China.

This past spring, the respective governments had agreed to remove significant levies on each other’s goods, which had created the possibility of trade halting between the two nations.

As a result, United States levies on Chinese goods subject to an added import tax compared with the start of the year, while items from the United States entering the country face a 10% tariff.

Beijing’s recent statements – released by the relevant government department in the manner of formal replies to media inquiries – mirrored rhetoric from the peak of the latest commercial tensions.

Officials denounced US export restrictions on chips and semi-conductors while justifying Beijing’s restrictions on exports on rare earths as “standard procedures” to safeguard national security and that of all nations.

The spokesperson said that for “a long time”, the America had “broadened the definition” of state security, misused export control measures and “adopted discriminatory practices against Beijing.

“Turning to” import duty warnings is not the proper method to engage with China,” the spokesperson said.

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

The previous week, Beijing declared it was tightening export controls on rare earths and additional substances vital for cutting-edge industry.

This move was regarded as a important measure, as the country processes about ninety percent of the planet’s critical minerals, which are employed in products such as photovoltaic modules and mobile phones.

The recent comments from both governments are being seen by analysts as a strategy of strengthening positions in preparation for forthcoming discussions.

It is unclear whether a talks between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping, planned at a conference in South Korea in the coming weeks, will still proceed.