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Donald Trump’s most recent warning to introduce an further 100% tariff on products from China has been described as a “typical example” of US double standards, per the Chinese government.

A Commerce Ministry spokesperson further commented that China could introduce its own unrevealed “responsive actions” if the American leader executes his warning, noting that the country was “fearless” of a looming trade war.

Last Friday, the former president responded at Beijing’s move to strengthen its regulations for overseas sales of rare earth minerals, alleging Beijing of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the world “captive”.

Furthermore, he vowed to pull out of a planned meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, which was set for a summit in Seoul before the month ends.

The former president’s remarks on that day shook financial markets, with the S&P 500 closing down nearly three percent, marking its steepest fall since earlier this year.

His comments reignited concerns of a trade war between the United States and China.

In May, the two sides had reached an agreement to remove triple-digit tariffs on each other’s products, which had led to concerns of trade halting between the two countries.

As a result, United States levies on Chinese goods facing an additional 30% levy compared with the start of the year, while US goods entering China are subject to a ten percent duty.

The most recent comments from China – issued by the Commerce Ministry in the manner of official answers to press queries – echoed terminology from the peak of the ongoing trade dispute.

The remarks condemned US export restrictions on electronic components while justifying China’s own overseas sale regulations on rare earth minerals as “routine measures” to protect state interests and that of every country.

The official remarked that for “a long time”, the United States had “broadened the definition” of state security, misused export control measures and “implemented” discriminatory practices against Beijing.

“Turning to” import duty warnings is not the proper method to interact with Beijing,” the spokesperson stated.

“The nation’s view” on a tariff war has consistently been consistent: we wish to avoid one, but we are fearless of one.”

Recently, China declared it was reinforcing export controls on rare earth minerals and other materials essential to cutting-edge industry.

This move was regarded as a key move, as the nation processes about 90% of the planet’s critical minerals, which are used in products such as solar panels and smartphones.

Latest statements from both governments are being viewed by analysts as a method of strengthening positions ahead of upcoming negotiations.

Remains uncertain whether a meeting between Trump and Xi Jinping, planned at a high-level meeting in Seoul later this month, will go ahead.