Beijing Slams United States of ‘Contradictory Stances’ Over Trade Levy Warning

Donald Trump’s newest ultimatum to enforce an further 100% tariff on Chinese goods has been called a “typical example” of United States’ contradictory behavior, as stated by the Chinese government.

A Commerce Ministry spokesperson additionally remarked that China could introduce its own unspecified “countermeasures” if the US President executes his threat, adding that the country was “not afraid” of a looming trade war.

This past Friday, Trump retaliated at the Chinese government’s action to strengthen its regulations for overseas sales of rare earths, charging China of “adopting a confrontational stance” and attempting to hold the global community “hostage”.

Additionally, he warned to withdraw from a arranged talks with Chinese leader President Xi, which was expected to take place during a conference in Seoul before the month ends.

The former president’s remarks on last Friday unsettled financial markets, with the S&P 500 share index dropping 2.7%, marking its biggest drop since April.

His comments renewed apprehensions of a commercial dispute between the two economic giants.

This past spring, the both nations had reached an agreement to drop high import duties on each other’s imports, which had led to concerns of bilateral trade stopping between the two countries.

This left, United States levies on products from China facing an extra import tax compared with the beginning of 2025, while American products entering the country incur a import levy.

Beijing’s recent statements – published by the Ministry of Commerce in the manner of official answers to media inquiries – echoed language from the zenith of the latest commercial tensions.

Officials denounced US export restrictions on semiconductors and chips while defending the country’s own export controls on rare earths as “routine measures” to safeguard domestic safety and that of every country.

The spokesperson remarked that for “an extended period”, the US had “overstretched the concept of state security, misused overseas sale restrictions and “implemented” biased policies against China.

“Turning to” import duty warnings is not the right way to deal with China,” their representative commented.

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

Recently, Beijing revealed it was strengthening overseas sale regulations on rare earth minerals and additional substances vital for high-technology production.

This was seen as a important measure, as the country handles about ninety percent of the global rare earth supply, which are used in items such as renewable energy components and handheld devices.

Latest statements from the US and China are being interpreted by observers as a means of bolstering negotiating stances ahead of forthcoming discussions.

Is not yet known whether a meeting between the former president and China’s leader, scheduled at a high-level meeting in Seoul before month’s end, will still proceed.