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The former US president’s newest warning to introduce an additional full import duty on items imported from China has been described as a “typical example” of American hypocrisy, per the China’s leadership.

A representative of the ministry further commented that China could enact its own undisclosed “retaliatory steps” if the White House occupant carries out his threat, emphasizing that the country was “fearless” of a potential commercial battle.

Last Friday, the former president responded at the Chinese government’s action to reinforce its policies for foreign shipments of rare earth minerals, alleging the Chinese leadership of “turning aggressive” and attempting to hold the world “captive”.

Furthermore, he vowed to withdraw from a planned meeting with Chinese leader Xi, which was set for a conference in Seoul in the coming weeks.

The former president’s remarks on Friday rattled stock exchanges, with the S&P 500 falling by nearly three percent, marking its steepest fall since earlier this year.

His comments renewed concerns of a commercial dispute between the United States and China.

In May, the respective governments had agreed to drop high import duties on each other’s products, which had raised the prospect of commerce ceasing between the two countries.

Consequently, US tariffs on Chinese goods incurring an added 30% levy compared with the year’s onset, while items from the United States entering China incur a import levy.

China’s latest remarks – released by the Ministry of Commerce in the manner of written responses to press queries – reflected terminology from the height of the latest commercial tensions.

Officials denounced United States controls on electronic components while supporting Beijing’s overseas sale regulations on key elements as “standard procedures” to protect national security and that of all nations.

The spokesperson remarked that for “a long time”, the America had “expanded the interpretation” of domestic safety, abused overseas sale restrictions and “implemented” discriminatory practices against the Chinese nation.

“Using” tariff threats is not the right way to deal with China,” the official commented.

“Beijing’s stance” on a import duty dispute has remained steady: we do not want one, but we are fearless of one.”

The previous week, China declared it was strengthening export controls on key elements and additional substances vital for advanced tech manufacturing.

This was seen as a significant step, as the state handles about 90% of the planet’s critical minerals, which are used in products such as renewable energy components and smartphones.

Latest statements from Washington and Beijing are being seen by some as a means of enhancing bargaining power prior to future trade talks.

Remains uncertain whether a talks between the former president and President Xi, expected at a summit in the Republic of Korea later this month, will take place as planned.