China Accuses US of ‘Contradictory Stances’ Over Trade Levy Warning

The former US president’s latest ultimatum to introduce an additional full import duty on items imported from China has been described as a “classic case” of United States’ contradictory behavior, according to the Chinese government.

A official from China’s Commerce Ministry further commented that Beijing could implement its own unrevealed “responsive actions” if the US President carries out his warning, adding that the country was “fearless” of a possible commercial battle.

Last Friday, Trump responded at China’s decision to reinforce its policies for foreign shipments of rare earth minerals, alleging the Chinese leadership of “turning aggressive” and attempting to hold the world “under its control”.

He also threatened to pull out of a arranged meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, which was expected to take place during a meeting in Seoul before the month ends.

Trump’s comments on last Friday unsettled global markets, with the benchmark US stock index dropping over two and a half percent, marking its largest decline since earlier this year.

The president’s words reignited apprehensions of a trade war between the United States and China.

In May, the two sides had reached an agreement to eliminate triple-digit tariffs on each other’s imports, which had led to concerns of commerce ceasing between the two nations.

Consequently, United States levies on Chinese goods incurring an added import tax compared with the year’s onset, while US goods entering China face a 10% tariff.

The most recent comments from China – published by the Ministry of Commerce in the manner of formal replies to journalist’s questions – reflected terminology from the zenith of the ongoing trade dispute.

Officials denounced US export restrictions on semiconductors and chips while justifying Beijing’s export controls on rare earths as “normal actions” to ensure domestic safety and that of the global community.

The official said that for “an extended period”, the United States had “overstretched the concept of domestic safety, abused overseas sale restrictions and “implemented” biased policies against Beijing.

“Turning to” tariff threats is not the right way to interact with the Chinese government,” the spokesperson said.

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

Recently, Beijing announced it was reinforcing foreign shipment restrictions on key elements and additional substances critical for cutting-edge industry.

This move was regarded as a key move, as the state processes about the vast majority of the planet’s critical minerals, which are utilized in products such as solar panels and handheld devices.

Latest statements from Washington and Beijing are being interpreted by analysts as a means of bolstering negotiating stances prior to upcoming negotiations.

It is unclear whether a meeting between the former president and Xi Jinping, scheduled at a summit in Seoul in the coming weeks, will take place as planned.