China Accuses US of ‘Hypocritical Policies’ Concerning Trade Levy Warning
Donald Trump’s most recent threat to impose an further complete levy on products from China has been called a “typical example” of US double standards, per the China’s leadership.
A Commerce Ministry spokesperson further commented that Beijing could introduce its own undisclosed “countermeasures” if the US President executes his threat, noting that the country was “not afraid” of a potential trade war.
Last Friday, the former president responded at Beijing’s move to tighten its rules for exports of rare earth minerals, charging China of “turning aggressive” and attempting to hold the global community “captive”.
Furthermore, he vowed to withdraw from a scheduled talks with China’s President Xi Jinping, which was arranged for a meeting in South Korea before the month ends.
The former president’s remarks on Friday unsettled financial markets, with the S&P 500 share index falling by over two and a half percent, marking its steepest fall since April.
His comments reignited fears of a trade conflict between the two economic giants.
Earlier this year, the both nations had consented to remove significant levies on each other’s imports, which had raised the prospect of bilateral trade stopping between the economic powers.
As a result, US tariffs on products from China facing an additional import tax compared with the beginning of 2025, while US goods entering the country face a 10% tariff.
The most recent comments from China – released by the Ministry of Commerce in the format of written responses to press queries – mirrored terminology from the zenith of the ongoing trade dispute.
They criticised American limits on exports on chips and semi-conductors while justifying Beijing’s export controls on rare earths as “routine measures” to safeguard state interests and that of every country.
Their representative said that for “many years”, the America had “expanded the interpretation” of state security, abused overseas sale restrictions and “adopted discriminatory practices against the Chinese nation.
“Using” tariff threats is not the correct approach to interact with China,” the official commented.
“The nation’s view” on a import duty dispute has always been steady: we are not seeking one, but we are fearless of one.”
The previous week, China declared it was tightening export controls on rare earth minerals and additional substances vital for cutting-edge industry.
This move was regarded as a important measure, as the country processes about 90% of the world’s rare earths, which are used in goods such as solar panels and handheld devices.
Latest statements from both governments are being seen by some as a means of bolstering negotiating stances ahead of upcoming negotiations.
It is unclear whether a talks between Trump and Xi Jinping, scheduled at a summit in South Korea before month’s end, will still proceed.
