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Donald Trump’s latest warning to impose an additional complete levy on items imported from China has been labeled a “classic case” of US double standards, according to the Chinese government.

A Commerce Ministry spokesperson also stated that the nation could introduce its own unrevealed “responsive actions” if the White House occupant carries out his warning, noting that the country was “not afraid” of a looming trade war.

Last Friday, Trump retaliated at Beijing’s move to reinforce its regulations for exports of rare earth minerals, alleging Beijing of “adopting a confrontational stance” and attempting to hold the global community “hostage”.

Additionally, he threatened to cancel a arranged summit with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, which was expected to take place during a summit in South Korea before the month ends.

His statements on Friday shook stock exchanges, with the benchmark US stock index closing down 2.7%, marking its biggest drop since April.

His comments reignited fears of a commercial dispute between the two economic giants.

This past spring, the two sides had reached an agreement to drop high import duties on each other’s products, which had created the possibility of commerce ceasing between the two nations.

This left, American import duties on Chinese goods incurring an extra 30% levy compared with the start of the year, while US goods entering the country 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 journalist’s questions – reflected rhetoric from the peak of the recent trade conflict.

They criticised American limits on exports on chips and semi-conductors while supporting China’s own export controls on rare earths as “normal actions” to safeguard state interests and that of the global community.

Their representative stated that for “many years”, the United States had “expanded the interpretation” of domestic safety, exploited export control measures and “enforced” unfair treatments against Beijing.

“Using” tariff threats is not the correct approach to deal with China,” the spokesperson commented.

“Beijing’s stance” on a import duty dispute has always been consistent: we are not seeking one, but we are fearless of one.”

Recently, Beijing announced it was reinforcing overseas sale regulations on rare earths and further resources essential to high-technology production.

The action was viewed as a important measure, as the state processes about the vast majority of the planet’s critical minerals, which are employed in products such as photovoltaic modules and mobile phones.

New remarks from Washington and Beijing are being seen by observers as a means of bolstering negotiating stances prior to upcoming negotiations.

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