China Accuses US of ‘Contradictory Stances’ Over Trade Levy Warning

The former US president’s newest ultimatum to impose an additional full import duty on products from China has been called a “prime illustration” of American hypocrisy, per the Chinese government.

A representative of the ministry also stated that China could implement its own undisclosed “retaliatory steps” if the American leader carries out his pledge, adding that the country was “unafraid” of a possible trade conflict.

This past Friday, the former president responded at the Chinese government’s action to strengthen its policies for exports of rare earths, alleging China of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the global community “under its control”.

Additionally, he warned to withdraw from a arranged summit with China’s President Xi, which was set 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 closing down 2.7%, marking its largest decline since April.

These statements revived fears of a trade war between the two economic giants.

This past spring, the two sides had reached an agreement to eliminate triple-digit tariffs on each other’s imports, which had created the possibility of commerce ceasing between the economic powers.

As a result, United States levies on Chinese imports subject to an extra thirty percent tariff compared with the beginning of 2025, while American products entering China face a import levy.

The most recent comments from China – published by the relevant government department in the format of written responses to press queries – reflected rhetoric from the height of the recent trade conflict.

Officials denounced US export restrictions on chips and semi-conductors while supporting China’s own overseas sale regulations on rare earths as “normal actions” to protect national security and that of the global community.

The official said that for “many years”, the US had “expanded the interpretation” of domestic safety, abused export control measures and “implemented” discriminatory practices against the Chinese nation.

“Resorting to import duty warnings is not the proper method to interact with the Chinese government,” the spokesperson said.

“Beijing’s stance” on a tariff war has always been steady: we wish to avoid one, but we are fearless of one.”

The previous week, the Chinese government announced it was strengthening overseas sale regulations on rare earths and other materials essential to high-technology production.

This was seen as a important measure, as the state processes about the vast majority of the planet’s critical minerals, which are utilized in items such as photovoltaic modules and handheld devices.

Latest statements from the US and China are being viewed by some as a method of strengthening positions prior to future trade talks.

Remains uncertain whether a talks between Trump and President Xi, planned at a high-level meeting in Seoul later this month, will go ahead.