China Accuses America of ‘Double Standards’ Concerning Tariff Threat

Donald Trump’s latest ultimatum to impose an additional 100% tariff on products from China has been labeled a “prime illustration” of American hypocrisy, per the Chinese government.

A official from China’s Commerce Ministry also stated that the nation could implement its own unspecified “responsive actions” if the US President follows through on his pledge, noting that the country was “unafraid” of a potential commercial battle.

Last Friday, Donald Trump hit back at Beijing’s move to tighten its regulations for foreign shipments of rare earths, accusing the Chinese leadership of “adopting a confrontational stance” and attempting to hold the international market “captive”.

He also threatened to pull out of a planned meeting with Beijing’s head of state Xi, which was expected to take place during a conference in South Korea in the coming weeks.

Trump’s comments on Friday unsettled stock exchanges, with the S&P 500 falling by 2.7%, marking its steepest fall since earlier this year.

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

Earlier this year, the two sides had agreed to remove triple-digit tariffs on each other’s imports, which had raised the prospect of commerce ceasing between the economic powers.

Consequently, United States levies on Chinese goods subject to an added import tax compared with the beginning of 2025, while US goods entering the country incur a import levy.

Beijing’s recent statements – issued by the relevant government department in the manner of written responses to press queries – reflected rhetoric from the zenith of the recent trade conflict.

They criticised United States controls on chips and semi-conductors while supporting Beijing’s export controls on rare earth minerals as “standard procedures” to ensure national security and that of all nations.

Their representative remarked that for “a long time”, the United States had “broadened the definition” of domestic safety, misused overseas sale restrictions and “implemented” unfair treatments against the Chinese nation.

“Turning to” trade levy ultimatums is not the proper method to deal with China,” their representative stated.

“Beijing’s stance” on a import duty dispute has remained steady: we wish to avoid one, but we are unafraid of one.”

Recently, China announced it was reinforcing export controls on rare earths and further resources critical for cutting-edge industry.

This was seen as a important measure, as the country refines about 90% of the world’s rare earths, which are employed in goods such as photovoltaic modules and smartphones.

Latest statements from the US and China are being viewed by some as a means of enhancing bargaining power prior to forthcoming discussions.

It is unclear whether a meeting between Trump and China’s leader, expected at a summit in the Republic of Korea later this month, will go ahead.