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Donald Trump’s latest warning to impose an further full import duty on products from China has been labeled a “prime illustration” of US double standards, as stated by the China’s leadership.

A representative of the ministry additionally remarked that the nation could implement its own undisclosed “responsive actions” if the American leader executes his pledge, noting that the country was “unafraid” of a possible commercial battle.

On Friday, the former president retaliated at Beijing’s move to reinforce its regulations for overseas sales of critical elements, accusing China of “turning aggressive” and attempting to hold the global community “hostage”.

Additionally, he threatened to cancel a planned talks with Chinese leader Xi, which was set for a meeting in the Republic of Korea in the coming weeks.

The former president’s remarks on Friday rattled stock exchanges, with the S&P 500 share index closing down nearly three percent, marking its steepest fall since April.

The president’s words reignited concerns of a commercial dispute between the US and China.

In May, the two sides had consented to eliminate triple-digit tariffs on each other’s goods, which had led to concerns of bilateral trade stopping between the economic powers.

This left, United States levies on products from China subject to an extra 30% levy compared with the start of the year, while items from the United States entering the Chinese market are subject to a 10% tariff.

China’s latest remarks – published by the Ministry of Commerce in the manner of official answers to media inquiries – mirrored rhetoric from the peak of the recent trade conflict.

Officials denounced US export restrictions on semiconductors and chips while defending China’s own overseas sale regulations on key elements as “standard procedures” to ensure state interests and that of all nations.

The official remarked that for “a long time”, the America had “broadened the definition” of national security, exploited foreign shipment regulations and “enforced” biased policies against the Chinese nation.

“Resorting to import duty warnings is not the correct approach to deal with the Chinese government,” their representative stated.

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

Recently, China declared it was tightening export controls on rare earth minerals and other materials critical for high-technology production.

This was seen as a important measure, as the state handles about the vast majority of the global rare earth supply, which are utilized in products such as solar panels and handheld devices.

New remarks from both governments are being seen by analysts as a means of strengthening positions ahead of forthcoming discussions.

Remains uncertain whether a summit between Trump and Xi Jinping, expected at a conference in Seoul in the coming weeks, will take place as planned.