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

Donald Trump’s most recent warning to impose an additional 100% tariff on Chinese goods has been labeled a “classic case” of American hypocrisy, as stated by the China’s leadership.

A official from China’s Commerce Ministry also stated that the nation could implement its own unspecified “responsive actions” if the US President carries out his threat, noting that the country was “not afraid” of a looming trade conflict.

Last Friday, Donald Trump retaliated at the Chinese government’s action to strengthen its policies for exports of critical elements, charging the Chinese leadership of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the international market “captive”.

Additionally, he vowed to cancel a arranged talks with Beijing’s head of state Xi, which was set for a summit in the Republic of Korea later this month.

The former president’s remarks on that day rattled stock exchanges, with the benchmark US stock index dropping nearly three percent, marking its biggest drop since April.

His comments renewed concerns of a trade war between the two economic giants.

Earlier this year, the respective governments had reached an agreement to drop significant levies on each other’s products, which had raised the prospect of trade halting between the economic powers.

This left, United States levies on Chinese goods subject to an extra 30% levy compared with the beginning of 2025, while items from the United States entering the country are subject to a 10% tariff.

The most recent comments from China – published by the Ministry of Commerce in the manner of official answers to journalist’s questions – mirrored terminology from the zenith of the recent trade conflict.

They criticised US export restrictions on chips and semi-conductors while defending the country’s own export controls on rare earth minerals as “normal actions” to ensure national security and that of every country.

The official stated that for “many years”, the United States had “broadened the definition” of domestic safety, abused overseas sale restrictions and “enforced” unfair treatments against the Chinese nation.

“Resorting to trade levy ultimatums is not the proper method to interact with the Chinese government,” the spokesperson stated.

“The nation’s view” on a tariff war has always been steady: we are not seeking one, but we are not afraid of one.”

Last week, China declared it was tightening export controls on key elements and further resources vital for cutting-edge industry.

This move was regarded as a key move, as the state processes about the vast majority of the world’s rare earths, which are utilized in products such as photovoltaic modules and smartphones.

The recent comments from the US and China are being seen by analysts as a strategy of strengthening positions ahead of forthcoming discussions.

It is unclear whether a talks between Trump and President Xi, expected at a conference in Seoul before month’s end, will take place as planned.