Chinese Government Condemns US of ‘Double Standards’ Over Import Duty Ultimatum

Donald Trump’s latest threat to impose an further complete levy on Chinese goods has been described as a “prime illustration” of American hypocrisy, per the Beijing administration.

A official from China’s Commerce Ministry additionally remarked that Beijing could introduce its own unspecified “retaliatory steps” if the US President carries out his pledge, emphasizing that the country was “fearless” of a potential trade war.

Last Friday, Trump responded at the Chinese government’s action to tighten its regulations for foreign shipments of rare earths, alleging Beijing of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the world “captive”.

Furthermore, he threatened to withdraw from a scheduled talks with China’s President Xi, which was arranged for a meeting in Seoul later this month.

His statements on last Friday rattled global markets, with the benchmark US stock index falling by 2.7%, marking its biggest drop since earlier this year.

His comments revived fears of a trade war between the US and China.

This past spring, the two sides had agreed to eliminate significant levies on each other’s imports, which had led to concerns of bilateral trade stopping between the economic powers.

As a result, US tariffs on Chinese goods subject to an added 30% levy compared with the beginning of 2025, while items from the United States entering the Chinese market face a 10% tariff.

China’s latest remarks – published by the relevant government department in the form of formal replies to journalist’s questions – reflected rhetoric from the zenith of the recent trade conflict.

Officials denounced United States controls on semiconductors and chips while justifying Beijing’s restrictions on exports on key elements as “routine measures” to safeguard domestic safety and that of all nations.

The official stated that for “many years”, the America had “expanded the interpretation” of national security, abused foreign shipment regulations and “implemented” biased policies against the Chinese nation.

“Using” tariff threats is not the correct approach to deal with the Chinese government,” their representative stated.

“China’s position on a tariff war has consistently been unchanging: we are not seeking one, but we are fearless of one.”

The previous week, Beijing declared it was reinforcing overseas sale regulations on key elements and other materials essential to advanced tech manufacturing.

This move was regarded as a significant step, as the state handles about ninety percent of the global rare earth supply, which are employed in goods such as photovoltaic modules and handheld devices.

The recent comments from Washington and Beijing are being viewed by observers as a means of enhancing bargaining power prior to upcoming negotiations.

Remains uncertain whether a talks between Donald Trump and China’s leader, scheduled at a summit in the Republic of Korea before month’s end, will take place as planned.