China Accuses America of ‘Double Standards’ Over Import Duty Ultimatum
Trump’s newest threat to enforce an extra 100% tariff on products from China has been labeled a “classic case” of American hypocrisy, per the China’s leadership.
A Commerce Ministry spokesperson also stated that the nation could implement its own unspecified “retaliatory steps” if the US President follows through on his warning, adding that the country was “unafraid” of a potential trade war.
On Friday, the former president retaliated at China’s decision to tighten its regulations for foreign shipments of critical elements, accusing the Chinese leadership of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the global community “under its control”.
Furthermore, he warned to cancel a planned talks with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, which was expected to take place during a conference in South Korea before the month ends.
The former president’s remarks on Friday unsettled stock exchanges, with the benchmark US stock index falling by over two and a half percent, marking its steepest fall since April.
His comments revived apprehensions of a trade conflict between the two economic giants.
Earlier this year, the both nations had agreed to drop significant levies on each other’s products, which had led to concerns of bilateral trade stopping between the economic powers.
Consequently, American import duties on Chinese goods subject to an added import tax compared with the beginning of 2025, while American products entering the Chinese market face a 10% tariff.
China’s latest remarks – published by the relevant government department in the form of official answers to press queries – mirrored terminology from the peak of the recent trade conflict.
Officials denounced United States controls on electronic components while defending Beijing’s export controls on rare earth minerals as “normal actions” to ensure state interests and that of all nations.
Their representative said that for “an extended period”, the US had “broadened the definition” of state security, abused overseas sale restrictions and “implemented” discriminatory practices against Beijing.
“Turning to” tariff threats is not the right way to interact with China,” their representative commented.
“Beijing’s stance” on a trade conflict has consistently been unchanging: we wish to avoid one, but we are not afraid of one.”
Last week, China revealed it was strengthening export controls on rare earth minerals and further resources vital for cutting-edge industry.
This was seen as a important measure, as the state refines about ninety percent of the planet’s critical minerals, which are utilized in goods such as photovoltaic modules and mobile phones.
Latest statements from both governments are being interpreted by observers as a strategy of strengthening positions ahead of upcoming negotiations.
Remains uncertain whether a meeting between Donald Trump and President Xi, planned at a summit in South Korea before month’s end, will still proceed.
