Chinese Government Condemns US of ‘Double Standards’ Concerning Import Duty Ultimatum

Donald Trump’s newest ultimatum to introduce an additional full import duty on items imported from China has been labeled a “typical example” of American hypocrisy, per the China’s leadership.

A Commerce Ministry spokesperson further commented that China could introduce its own unrevealed “retaliatory steps” if the American leader carries out his threat, noting that the country was “not afraid” of a looming commercial battle.

This past Friday, Trump hit back at Beijing’s move to tighten its rules for foreign shipments of rare earth minerals, accusing China of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the global community “under its control”.

He also warned to cancel a arranged summit with China’s President Xi Jinping, which was expected to take place during a conference in Seoul in the coming weeks.

Trump’s comments on Friday unsettled stock exchanges, with the S&P 500 closing down nearly three percent, marking its steepest fall since last spring.

His comments renewed fears of a trade conflict between the two economic giants.

In May, the both nations had reached an agreement to drop triple-digit tariffs on each other’s goods, which had created the possibility of commerce ceasing between the two countries.

This left, American import duties on products from China subject to an extra 30% levy compared with the beginning of 2025, while items from the United States entering the country face a import levy.

The most recent comments from China – issued by the relevant government department in the format of official answers to press queries – mirrored language from the peak of the ongoing trade dispute.

The remarks condemned US export restrictions on electronic components while justifying China’s own restrictions on exports on key elements as “normal actions” to protect state interests and that of the global community.

Their representative said that for “a long time”, the United States had “overstretched the concept of state security, abused overseas sale restrictions and “implemented” unfair treatments against China.

“Resorting to import duty warnings is not the proper method to engage with the Chinese government,” their representative said.

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

Recently, the Chinese government declared it was tightening foreign shipment restrictions on rare earths and further resources vital for cutting-edge industry.

The action was viewed as a significant step, as the nation processes about 90% of the world’s rare earths, which are used in goods such as renewable energy components and handheld devices.

Latest statements from Washington and Beijing are being seen by observers as a method of enhancing bargaining power ahead of forthcoming discussions.

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