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Donald Trump’s most recent threat to enforce an extra full import duty on products from China has been called a “prime illustration” of American hypocrisy, according to the China’s leadership.

A official from China’s Commerce Ministry also stated that China could enact its own unrevealed “responsive actions” if the White House occupant follows through on his pledge, noting that the country was “not afraid” of a potential trade war.

On Friday, Donald Trump responded at Beijing’s move to reinforce its rules for foreign shipments of critical elements, accusing Beijing of “turning aggressive” and attempting to hold the world “hostage”.

He also warned to withdraw from a arranged talks with China’s President Xi Jinping, which was expected to take place during a conference in Seoul in the coming weeks.

His statements on last Friday rattled stock exchanges, with the S&P 500 closing down 2.7%, marking its steepest fall since April.

The president’s words reignited concerns of a trade conflict between the two economic giants.

This past spring, the both nations had consented to drop significant levies on each other’s imports, which had created the possibility of trade halting between the two countries.

As a result, US tariffs on Chinese imports facing an extra thirty percent tariff compared with the start of the year, while US goods entering the Chinese market face a ten percent duty.

The most recent comments from China – issued by the Commerce Ministry in the form of official answers to media inquiries – reflected rhetoric from the peak of the latest commercial tensions.

The remarks condemned United States controls on semiconductors and chips while defending China’s own export controls on key elements as “normal actions” to safeguard state interests and that of the global community.

The spokesperson said that for “a long time”, the US had “broadened the definition” of national security, misused overseas sale restrictions and “implemented” discriminatory practices against the Chinese nation.

“Using” tariff threats is not the right way to engage with the Chinese government,” the spokesperson commented.

“Beijing’s stance” on a import duty dispute has consistently been consistent: we are not seeking one, but we are unafraid of one.”

Last week, China announced it was reinforcing foreign shipment restrictions on rare earth minerals and further resources vital for high-technology production.

This move was regarded as a important measure, as the nation processes about ninety percent of the planet’s critical minerals, which are utilized in items such as renewable energy components and smartphones.

The recent comments from Washington and Beijing are being interpreted by some as a method of enhancing bargaining power ahead of upcoming negotiations.

Is not yet known whether a talks between Donald Trump and President Xi, planned at a conference in Seoul before month’s end, will still proceed.