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Donald Trump’s latest warning to introduce an further 100% tariff on items imported from China has been labeled a “prime illustration” of American hypocrisy, as stated by the China’s leadership.

A Commerce Ministry spokesperson also stated that China could implement its own undisclosed “retaliatory steps” if the American leader follows through on his pledge, emphasizing that the country was “not afraid” of a looming trade conflict.

On Friday, the former president retaliated at Beijing’s move to strengthen its policies for overseas sales of rare earth minerals, alleging China of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the global community “under its control”.

He also threatened to cancel a scheduled talks with China’s President President Xi, which was set for a meeting in South Korea later this month.

The former president’s remarks on last Friday rattled stock exchanges, with the S&P 500 closing down nearly three percent, marking its biggest drop since April.

These statements revived concerns of a trade conflict between the United States and China.

In May, the two sides had agreed to eliminate triple-digit tariffs on each other’s goods, which had created the possibility of bilateral trade stopping between the economic powers.

Consequently, United States levies on products from China subject to an added thirty percent tariff compared with the year’s onset, while American products entering the country face a 10% tariff.

The most recent comments from China – issued by the Ministry of Commerce in the format of written responses to journalist’s questions – echoed language from the zenith of the recent trade conflict.

The remarks condemned American limits on exports on semiconductors and chips while justifying the country’s own export controls on rare earths as “routine measures” to ensure domestic safety and that of all nations.

Their representative said that for “many years”, the US had “overstretched the concept of national security, exploited foreign shipment regulations and “implemented” unfair treatments against Beijing.

“Turning to” trade levy ultimatums is not the correct approach to engage with the Chinese government,” their representative stated.

“The nation’s view” on a tariff war has remained consistent: we are not seeking one, but we are fearless of one.”

Last week, the Chinese government declared it was strengthening foreign shipment restrictions on rare earth minerals and other materials vital for cutting-edge industry.

The action was viewed as a significant step, as the state processes about ninety percent of the planet’s critical minerals, which are used in items such as photovoltaic modules and smartphones.

Latest statements from both governments are being interpreted by some as a strategy of strengthening positions in preparation for forthcoming discussions.

Is not yet known whether a talks between Donald Trump and China’s leader, scheduled at a conference in Seoul before month’s end, will still proceed.