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Donald Trump’s most recent threat to introduce an additional 100% tariff on items imported from China has been described as a “prime illustration” of United States’ contradictory behavior, as stated by the Chinese government.

A official from China’s Commerce Ministry additionally remarked that the nation could implement its own unspecified “countermeasures” if the American leader carries out his warning, adding that the country was “not afraid” of a looming commercial battle.

Last Friday, Trump responded at Beijing’s move to strengthen its regulations for overseas sales of rare earths, accusing Beijing of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the global community “under its control”.

Additionally, he warned to withdraw from a scheduled meeting with China’s President President Xi, which was arranged for a summit in South Korea before the month ends.

The former president’s remarks on Friday rattled financial markets, with the benchmark US stock index closing down 2.7%, marking its largest decline since April.

The president’s words renewed fears of a trade conflict between the two economic giants.

In May, the both nations had consented to eliminate high import duties on each other’s imports, which had led to concerns of bilateral trade stopping between the economic powers.

Consequently, American import duties on Chinese imports incurring an additional 30% levy compared with the year’s onset, while US goods entering China incur a import levy.

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

The remarks condemned United States controls on electronic components while justifying China’s own overseas sale regulations on rare earths as “normal actions” to ensure domestic safety and that of all nations.

Their representative stated that for “an extended period”, the United States had “broadened the definition” of national security, exploited foreign shipment regulations and “enforced” unfair treatments against the Chinese nation.

“Using” trade levy ultimatums is not the right way to deal with Beijing,” the official said.

“Beijing’s stance” on a trade conflict has remained unchanging: we do not want one, but we are fearless of one.”

Recently, the Chinese government announced it was strengthening foreign shipment restrictions on rare earth minerals and further resources essential to cutting-edge industry.

This move was regarded as a significant step, as the country refines about 90% of the planet’s critical minerals, which are used in products such as photovoltaic modules and mobile phones.

The recent comments from both governments are being viewed by analysts as a means of enhancing bargaining power prior to upcoming negotiations.

It is unclear whether a summit between the former president and China’s leader, expected at a summit in the Republic of Korea before month’s end, will take place as planned.