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Trump’s most recent ultimatum to enforce an further 100% tariff on products from China has been labeled a “prime illustration” of United States’ contradictory behavior, according to the China’s leadership.

A official from China’s Commerce Ministry further commented that the nation could implement its own undisclosed “responsive actions” if the US President carries out his threat, noting that the country was “fearless” of a looming trade conflict.

Last Friday, Donald Trump responded at China’s decision to reinforce its regulations for exports of rare earth minerals, alleging Beijing of “turning aggressive” and attempting to hold the international market “captive”.

He also threatened to pull out of a arranged meeting with Beijing’s head of state Xi, which was expected to take place during a conference in Seoul before the month ends.

Trump’s comments on that day rattled financial markets, with the S&P 500 share index closing down nearly three percent, marking its steepest fall since April.

The president’s words revived concerns of a commercial dispute between the United States and China.

Earlier this year, the both nations had agreed to eliminate significant levies on each other’s products, which had led to concerns of commerce ceasing between the two nations.

As a result, United States levies on Chinese imports facing an additional 30% levy compared with the start of the year, while items from the United States entering the country incur a 10% tariff.

China’s latest remarks – issued by the Commerce Ministry in the manner of written responses to media inquiries – echoed rhetoric from the zenith of the ongoing trade dispute.

They criticised US export restrictions on semiconductors and chips while defending Beijing’s overseas sale regulations on rare earths as “normal actions” to safeguard domestic safety and that of all nations.

Their representative said that for “an extended period”, the US had “expanded the interpretation” of state security, misused export control measures and “enforced” unfair treatments against China.

“Turning to” trade levy ultimatums is not the right way to engage with the Chinese government,” the spokesperson stated.

“The nation’s view” on a tariff war has remained consistent: we wish to avoid one, but we are fearless of one.”

Recently, the Chinese government declared it was reinforcing foreign shipment restrictions on rare earths and further resources essential to high-technology production.

The action was viewed as a important measure, as the state refines about ninety percent of the planet’s critical minerals, which are used in goods such as solar panels and mobile phones.

The recent comments from the US and China are being viewed by observers as a means of bolstering negotiating stances prior to forthcoming discussions.

Is not yet known whether a meeting between Trump and President Xi, expected at a summit in the Republic of Korea later this month, will take place as planned.