China Accuses US of ‘Hypocritical Policies’ Regarding Trade Levy Warning

Donald Trump’s most recent warning to introduce an further full import duty on items imported from China has been called a “typical example” of American hypocrisy, as stated by the China’s leadership.

A representative of the ministry further commented that Beijing could introduce its own unrevealed “countermeasures” if the American leader follows through on his warning, emphasizing that the country was “not afraid” of a possible trade conflict.

Last Friday, the former president retaliated at China’s decision to reinforce its policies for exports of rare earth minerals, alleging Beijing of “turning aggressive” and attempting to hold the international market “under its control”.

Furthermore, he vowed to withdraw from a scheduled meeting with Beijing’s head of state Xi Jinping, which was set for a meeting in Seoul before the month ends.

The former president’s remarks on last Friday rattled global markets, with the S&P 500 dropping 2.7%, marking its biggest drop since April.

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

This past spring, the two sides had agreed to drop significant levies on each other’s imports, which had created the possibility of bilateral trade stopping between the two countries.

As a result, United States levies on Chinese imports facing an additional thirty percent tariff compared with the beginning of 2025, while American products entering the country are subject to a 10% tariff.

China’s latest remarks – issued by the Ministry of Commerce in the form of formal replies to journalist’s questions – mirrored rhetoric from the zenith of the recent trade conflict.

They criticised US export restrictions on electronic components while justifying the country’s own export controls on rare earth minerals as “normal actions” to ensure national security and that of all nations.

The spokesperson remarked that for “an extended period”, the United States had “expanded the interpretation” of state security, misused foreign shipment regulations and “implemented” unfair treatments against the Chinese nation.

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

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

The previous week, the Chinese government revealed it was tightening foreign shipment restrictions on key elements and further resources critical for advanced tech manufacturing.

This move was regarded as a key move, as the nation processes about 90% of the global rare earth supply, which are utilized in products such as solar panels and smartphones.

Latest statements from both governments are being seen by observers as a means of strengthening positions prior to forthcoming discussions.

Remains uncertain whether a talks between Trump and China’s leader, planned at a high-level meeting in the Republic of Korea before month’s end, will still proceed.