Beijing Slams US of ‘Contradictory Stances’ Over Tariff Threat

Trump’s most recent threat to enforce an further complete levy on items imported from China has been labeled a “typical example” of American hypocrisy, according to the Chinese government.

A representative of the ministry further commented that Beijing could implement its own unrevealed “responsive actions” if the White House occupant executes his threat, emphasizing that the country was “fearless” of a looming commercial battle.

Last Friday, Trump responded at China’s decision to reinforce its regulations for foreign shipments of rare earth minerals, charging Beijing of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the international market “hostage”.

He also warned to cancel a scheduled meeting with Beijing’s head of state President Xi, which was set for a summit in the Republic of Korea before the month ends.

Trump’s comments on last Friday rattled stock exchanges, with the benchmark US stock index falling by over two and a half percent, marking its steepest fall since last spring.

The president’s words renewed fears of a trade war between the United States and China.

Earlier this year, the two sides had reached an agreement to drop triple-digit tariffs on each other’s imports, which had led to concerns of trade halting between the two nations.

Consequently, United States levies on Chinese goods incurring an additional thirty percent tariff compared with the beginning of 2025, while US goods entering China incur a import levy.

The most recent comments from China – released by the relevant government department in the form of official answers to media inquiries – reflected rhetoric from the zenith of the latest commercial tensions.

Officials denounced American limits on exports on semiconductors and chips while supporting Beijing’s export controls on key elements as “normal actions” to protect state interests and that of all nations.

The official said that for “an extended period”, the US had “broadened the definition” of national security, exploited overseas sale restrictions and “implemented” discriminatory practices against the Chinese nation.

“Turning to” import duty warnings is not the proper method to engage with the Chinese government,” the spokesperson stated.

“The nation’s view” on a tariff war has consistently been steady: we are not seeking one, but we are fearless of one.”

The previous week, Beijing declared it was tightening foreign shipment restrictions on rare earth minerals and other materials critical for high-technology production.

The action was viewed as a significant step, as the nation refines about 90% of the global rare earth supply, which are used in goods such as solar panels and handheld devices.

Latest statements from the US and China are being seen by some as a strategy of enhancing bargaining power ahead of forthcoming discussions.

Is not yet known whether a talks between the former president and China’s leader, expected at a summit in South Korea later this month, will go ahead.