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The former US president’s latest warning to introduce an further 100% tariff on Chinese goods has been labeled a “classic case” of US double standards, as stated by the Beijing administration.

A representative of the ministry additionally remarked that the nation could implement its own unrevealed “countermeasures” if the American leader follows through on his pledge, adding that the country was “not afraid” of a looming commercial battle.

On Friday, Donald Trump retaliated at China’s decision to reinforce its regulations for overseas sales of rare earth minerals, charging Beijing of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the world “captive”.

He also warned to withdraw from a scheduled summit with China’s President President Xi, which was arranged for a meeting in South Korea in the coming weeks.

Trump’s comments on that day shook stock exchanges, with the benchmark US stock index dropping nearly three percent, marking its largest decline since April.

His comments revived apprehensions of a trade war between the US and China.

In May, the two sides had consented to eliminate significant levies on each other’s goods, which had created the possibility of trade halting between the economic powers.

This left, United States levies on Chinese goods facing an additional 30% levy compared with the year’s onset, while American products entering the country face a import levy.

Beijing’s recent statements – released by the Ministry of Commerce in the manner of written responses to journalist’s questions – reflected language from the zenith of the ongoing trade dispute.

They criticised US export restrictions on semiconductors and chips while defending the country’s own overseas sale regulations on key elements as “normal actions” to safeguard national security and that of the global community.

Their representative stated that for “a long time”, the United States had “overstretched the concept of national security, misused export control measures and “enforced” biased policies against China.

“Turning to” trade levy ultimatums is not the proper method to interact with China,” the official said.

“China’s position on a import duty dispute has remained consistent: we do not want one, but we are unafraid of one.”

Recently, China declared it was tightening overseas sale regulations on rare earths and further resources critical for high-technology production.

This was seen as a key move, as the nation handles about 90% of the planet’s critical minerals, which are employed in items such as solar panels and smartphones.

Latest statements from both governments are being seen by analysts as a means of enhancing bargaining power ahead of future trade talks.

Remains uncertain whether a summit between Trump and Xi Jinping, scheduled at a conference in the Republic of Korea in the coming weeks, will take place as planned.