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The former US president’s latest threat to impose an extra full import duty on products from China has been called a “typical example” of US double standards, as stated by the Beijing administration.

A representative of the ministry additionally remarked that Beijing could enact its own unspecified “retaliatory steps” if the American leader follows through on his threat, noting that the country was “fearless” of a looming trade conflict.

Last Friday, the former president hit back at Beijing’s move to reinforce its policies for foreign shipments of critical elements, alleging Beijing of “turning aggressive” and attempting to hold the world “captive”.

Furthermore, he vowed to withdraw from a planned summit with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, which was arranged for a meeting in the Republic of Korea before the month ends.

His statements on last Friday rattled global markets, with the benchmark US stock index closing down over two and a half percent, marking its steepest fall since earlier this year.

The president’s words reignited fears of a commercial dispute between the two economic giants.

Earlier this year, the respective governments had reached an agreement to remove triple-digit tariffs on each other’s products, which had led to concerns of commerce ceasing between the economic powers.

Consequently, US tariffs on Chinese goods facing an extra thirty percent tariff compared with the start of the year, while items from the United States entering China are subject to a import levy.

The most recent comments from China – published by the Ministry of Commerce in the format of written responses to press queries – mirrored language from the peak of the recent trade conflict.

Officials denounced United States controls on electronic components while defending Beijing’s overseas sale regulations on rare earths as “standard procedures” to protect state interests and that of the global community.

The spokesperson remarked that for “many years”, the US had “expanded the interpretation” of domestic safety, exploited overseas sale restrictions and “adopted discriminatory practices against the Chinese nation.

“Turning to” trade levy ultimatums is not the right way to interact with China,” the official commented.

“Beijing’s stance” on a import duty dispute has remained steady: we do not want one, but we are unafraid of one.”

Last week, China declared it was strengthening overseas sale regulations on rare earths and additional substances vital for high-technology production.

This move was regarded as a significant step, as the country processes about ninety percent of the planet’s critical minerals, which are employed in products such as solar panels and handheld devices.

Latest statements from Washington and Beijing are being interpreted by observers as a method of strengthening positions ahead of forthcoming discussions.

Remains uncertain whether a meeting between the former president and President Xi, planned at a high-level meeting in Seoul in the coming weeks, will take place as planned.