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Donald Trump’s most recent threat to introduce an further 100% tariff on Chinese goods has been labeled a “classic case” of United States’ contradictory behavior, as stated by the Chinese government.

A Commerce Ministry spokesperson also stated that Beijing could implement its own undisclosed “countermeasures” if the White House occupant follows through on his warning, adding that the country was “not afraid” of a potential commercial battle.

This past Friday, the former president hit back at China’s decision to reinforce its regulations for exports of rare earths, charging China of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the global community “hostage”.

He also threatened to cancel a scheduled meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, which was arranged for a conference in the Republic of Korea before the month ends.

Trump’s comments on Friday unsettled global markets, with the S&P 500 share index dropping 2.7%, marking its largest decline since April.

These statements reignited fears of a trade conflict between the two economic giants.

Earlier this year, the both nations had consented to drop significant levies on each other’s goods, which had raised the prospect of commerce ceasing between the two nations.

This left, US tariffs on Chinese goods incurring an added thirty percent tariff compared with the start of the year, while US goods entering the country incur a 10% tariff.

Beijing’s recent statements – published by the relevant government department in the format of official answers to journalist’s questions – mirrored language from the zenith of the ongoing trade dispute.

The remarks condemned American limits on exports on chips and semi-conductors while justifying Beijing’s restrictions on exports on rare earths as “standard procedures” to ensure domestic safety and that of the global community.

The official stated that for “a long time”, the America had “expanded the interpretation” of domestic safety, misused overseas sale restrictions and “implemented” unfair treatments against China.

“Using” tariff threats is not the right way to deal with China,” their representative stated.

“The nation’s view” on a tariff war has remained unchanging: we are not seeking one, but we are unafraid of one.”

Recently, the Chinese government revealed it was strengthening overseas sale regulations on key elements and further resources vital for advanced tech manufacturing.

This move was regarded as a significant step, as the nation processes about 90% of the global rare earth supply, which are used in goods such as photovoltaic modules and handheld devices.

New remarks from the US and China are being viewed by analysts as a method of strengthening positions ahead of forthcoming discussions.

Is not yet known whether a meeting between Trump and President Xi, scheduled at a conference in South Korea before month’s end, will take place as planned.