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Donald Trump’s most recent warning to introduce an further full import duty on Chinese goods has been called a “typical example” of United States’ contradictory behavior, per the Beijing administration.

A official from China’s Commerce Ministry also stated that China could implement its own unspecified “responsive actions” if the White House occupant follows through on his threat, emphasizing that the country was “not afraid” of a potential trade conflict.

Last Friday, Trump responded at Beijing’s move to reinforce its policies for foreign shipments of critical elements, charging Beijing of “adopting a confrontational stance” and attempting to hold the international market “hostage”.

Furthermore, he threatened to withdraw from a scheduled summit with China’s President Xi, which was arranged for a meeting in the Republic of Korea before the month ends.

Trump’s comments on Friday shook financial markets, with the S&P 500 share index falling by over two and a half percent, marking its steepest fall since earlier this year.

His comments renewed apprehensions of a trade war between the US and China.

In May, the two sides had reached an agreement to drop high import duties on each other’s goods, which had raised the prospect of trade halting between the two countries.

As a result, United States levies on Chinese goods facing an additional thirty percent tariff compared with the year’s onset, while American products entering China are subject to a import levy.

The most recent comments from China – released by the Commerce Ministry in the format of written responses to press queries – echoed language from the peak of the ongoing trade dispute.

They criticised American limits on exports on semiconductors and chips while defending China’s own overseas sale regulations on key elements as “standard procedures” to safeguard state interests and that of every country.

The spokesperson said that for “a long time”, the United States had “broadened the definition” of domestic safety, abused overseas sale restrictions and “adopted discriminatory practices against the Chinese nation.

“Turning to” tariff threats is not the proper method to interact with China,” the spokesperson said.

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

Last week, the Chinese government announced it was strengthening foreign shipment restrictions on key elements and further resources critical for cutting-edge industry.

This move was regarded as a important measure, as the state handles about ninety percent of the global rare earth supply, which are utilized in goods such as photovoltaic modules and mobile phones.

Latest statements from both governments are being viewed by observers as a method of enhancing bargaining power in preparation for future trade talks.

Is not yet known whether a talks between the former president and President Xi, expected at a conference in Seoul before month’s end, will go ahead.