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Donald Trump’s most recent ultimatum to introduce an further 100% tariff on Chinese goods has been called a “prime illustration” of American hypocrisy, per the Chinese government.

A representative of the ministry further commented that the nation could introduce its own undisclosed “retaliatory steps” if the US President executes his threat, noting that the country was “fearless” of a possible trade conflict.

On Friday, the former president retaliated at Beijing’s move to tighten its regulations for exports of critical elements, alleging the Chinese leadership of “adopting a confrontational stance” and attempting to hold the global community “hostage”.

Additionally, he warned to withdraw from a planned meeting with Beijing’s head of state President Xi, which was expected to take place during a summit in Seoul later this month.

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

These statements renewed concerns of a trade war between the United States and China.

This past spring, the respective governments had reached an agreement to remove significant levies on each other’s goods, which had led to concerns of commerce ceasing between the two nations.

Consequently, American import duties on Chinese imports facing an extra import tax compared with the start of the year, while American products entering China are subject to a ten percent duty.

Beijing’s recent statements – published by the relevant government department in the format of written responses to journalist’s questions – echoed language from the height of the latest commercial tensions.

They criticised American limits on exports on chips and semi-conductors while justifying Beijing’s export controls on key elements as “normal actions” to protect national security and that of the global community.

Their representative said that for “a long time”, the US had “expanded the interpretation” of national security, exploited overseas sale restrictions and “enforced” discriminatory practices against China.

“Using” import duty warnings is not the correct approach to interact with the Chinese government,” the official stated.

“China’s position on a import duty dispute has consistently been unchanging: we are not seeking one, but we are fearless of one.”

Recently, Beijing revealed it was reinforcing overseas sale regulations on rare earths and additional substances essential to high-technology production.

The action was viewed as a important measure, as the state processes about 90% of the planet’s critical minerals, which are used in goods such as renewable energy components and mobile phones.

The recent comments from Washington and Beijing are being viewed by analysts as a method of enhancing bargaining power prior to upcoming negotiations.

Is not yet known whether a talks between Donald Trump and President Xi, expected at a high-level meeting in the Republic of Korea in the coming weeks, will still proceed.