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Trump’s newest threat to enforce an extra 100% tariff on products from China has been labeled a “prime illustration” of US double standards, per the Chinese government.

A Commerce Ministry spokesperson additionally remarked that Beijing could enact its own undisclosed “responsive actions” if the White House occupant executes his pledge, adding that the country was “unafraid” of a potential commercial battle.

Last Friday, the former president hit back at the Chinese government’s action to reinforce its policies for exports of rare earth minerals, alleging China of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the international market “hostage”.

He also threatened to pull out of a planned summit with China’s President Xi Jinping, which was arranged for a summit in South Korea before the month ends.

Trump’s comments on Friday rattled global markets, with the benchmark US stock index dropping nearly three percent, marking its steepest fall since April.

The president’s words reignited concerns of a trade war between the US and China.

In May, the both nations had agreed to drop significant levies on each other’s products, which had raised the prospect of bilateral trade stopping between the two nations.

As a result, United States levies on Chinese goods subject to an added 30% levy compared with the start of the year, while US goods entering the Chinese market are subject to a 10% tariff.

China’s latest remarks – issued by the Commerce Ministry in the format of written responses to journalist’s questions – reflected terminology from the height of the ongoing trade dispute.

The remarks condemned US export restrictions on electronic components while justifying the country’s own export controls on rare earth minerals as “normal actions” to ensure domestic safety and that of the global community.

The official said that for “many years”, the America had “expanded the interpretation” of state security, exploited foreign shipment regulations and “enforced” unfair treatments against Beijing.

“Using” trade levy ultimatums is not the proper method to engage with Beijing,” the spokesperson stated.

“The nation’s view” on a trade conflict has consistently been steady: we are not seeking one, but we are unafraid of one.”

Recently, the Chinese government announced it was tightening overseas sale regulations on rare earth minerals and other materials essential to advanced tech manufacturing.

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

Latest statements from Washington and Beijing are being viewed by analysts as a method of bolstering negotiating stances prior to upcoming negotiations.

It is unclear whether a meeting between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping, expected at a summit in the Republic of Korea before month’s end, will take place as planned.