Chinese Government Condemns US of ‘Contradictory Stances’ Over Import Duty Ultimatum

Donald Trump’s latest threat to enforce an further 100% tariff on Chinese goods has been labeled a “prime illustration” of US double standards, according to the Chinese government.

A Commerce Ministry spokesperson also stated that the nation could enact its own undisclosed “responsive actions” if the US President executes his threat, noting that the country was “fearless” of a potential commercial battle.

Last Friday, Donald Trump hit back at the Chinese government’s action to tighten its policies for exports of rare earths, alleging China of “turning aggressive” and attempting to hold the world “under its control”.

Furthermore, he threatened to withdraw from a scheduled talks with Chinese leader President Xi, which was set for a summit in Seoul later this month.

His statements on that day rattled global markets, with the S&P 500 falling by nearly three percent, marking its largest decline since last spring.

The president’s words reignited fears of a trade conflict between the US and China.

Earlier this year, the two sides had agreed to eliminate triple-digit tariffs on each other’s products, which had led to concerns of bilateral trade stopping between the two nations.

This left, American import duties on Chinese goods subject to an additional 30% levy compared with the start of the year, while American products entering the country face a import levy.

The most recent comments from China – released by the relevant government department in the manner of written responses to press queries – echoed terminology from the zenith of the latest commercial tensions.

Officials denounced American limits on exports on semiconductors and chips while defending China’s own overseas sale regulations on rare earth minerals as “routine measures” to protect national security and that of the global community.

Their representative stated that for “many years”, the America had “broadened the definition” of domestic safety, abused overseas sale restrictions and “enforced” biased policies against China.

“Turning to” trade levy ultimatums is not the proper method to deal with Beijing,” the official stated.

“The nation’s view” on a tariff war has consistently been steady: we do not want one, but we are unafraid of one.”

The previous week, the Chinese government declared it was strengthening export controls on rare earths and further resources vital for cutting-edge industry.

This was seen as a significant step, as the state processes about the vast majority of the world’s rare earths, which are used in items such as solar panels and smartphones.

New remarks from both governments are being interpreted by some as a strategy of strengthening positions in preparation for forthcoming discussions.

It is unclear whether a meeting between Donald Trump and President Xi, scheduled at a summit in South Korea later this month, will go ahead.