China Accuses US of ‘Contradictory Stances’ Concerning Import Duty Ultimatum

Trump’s newest ultimatum to introduce an additional 100% tariff on items imported from China has been described as a “prime illustration” of US double standards, per the Chinese government.

A official from China’s Commerce Ministry also stated that China could introduce its own unspecified “retaliatory steps” if the American leader carries out his pledge, emphasizing that the country was “fearless” of a possible trade conflict.

Last Friday, Trump retaliated at Beijing’s move to strengthen its rules for overseas sales of rare earth minerals, accusing the Chinese leadership of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the international market “under its control”.

Furthermore, he threatened to pull out of a scheduled talks with China’s President President Xi, which was set for a meeting in Seoul before the month ends.

Trump’s comments on last Friday unsettled global markets, with the S&P 500 falling by nearly three percent, marking its biggest drop since earlier this year.

The president’s words reignited apprehensions of a commercial dispute between the US and China.

Earlier this year, the respective governments had agreed to eliminate significant levies on each other’s imports, which had created the possibility of trade halting between the two nations.

This left, United States levies on Chinese imports facing an additional thirty percent tariff compared with the beginning of 2025, while US goods entering China face a 10% tariff.

The most recent comments from China – issued by the relevant government department in the form of formal replies to press queries – echoed terminology from the peak of the ongoing trade dispute.

They criticised American limits on exports on semiconductors and chips while supporting the country’s own overseas sale regulations on rare earth minerals as “routine measures” to protect national security and that of the global community.

The spokesperson stated that for “an extended period”, the America had “expanded the interpretation” of national security, abused export control measures and “enforced” discriminatory practices against China.

“Resorting to tariff threats is not the right way to interact with the Chinese government,” their representative stated.

“The nation’s view” on a trade conflict has always been consistent: we wish to avoid one, but we are fearless of one.”

Recently, China announced it was strengthening overseas sale regulations on key elements and additional substances essential to advanced tech manufacturing.

This was seen as a important measure, as the country processes about ninety percent of the world’s rare earths, which are utilized in items such as solar panels and handheld devices.

Latest statements from Washington and Beijing are being viewed by analysts as a means of strengthening positions ahead of future trade talks.

It is unclear whether a meeting between Donald Trump and China’s leader, expected at a conference in Seoul before month’s end, will still proceed.