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

The former US president’s newest threat to introduce an further 100% tariff on products from China has been called a “typical example” of United States’ contradictory behavior, according to the China’s leadership.

A representative of the ministry additionally remarked that China could enact its own unspecified “responsive actions” if the White House occupant follows through on his warning, noting that the country was “fearless” of a looming trade war.

This past Friday, Trump retaliated at Beijing’s move to reinforce its regulations for exports of rare earth minerals, alleging the Chinese leadership of “turning aggressive” and attempting to hold the world “hostage”.

Additionally, he warned to pull out of a scheduled talks with Beijing’s head of state Xi Jinping, which was expected to take place during a conference in Seoul later this month.

Trump’s comments on that day unsettled stock exchanges, with the benchmark US stock index closing down 2.7%, marking its largest decline since April.

These statements reignited concerns of a trade conflict between the two economic giants.

This past spring, the respective governments had agreed to drop significant levies on each other’s products, which had led to concerns of commerce ceasing between the two nations.

Consequently, United States levies on products from China subject to an added thirty percent tariff compared with the start of the year, while US goods entering the Chinese market incur a 10% tariff.

Beijing’s recent statements – released by the Commerce Ministry in the manner of written responses to media inquiries – echoed language from the height of the latest commercial tensions.

They criticised US export restrictions on electronic components while defending Beijing’s export controls on rare earths as “standard procedures” to safeguard state interests and that of every country.

Their representative said that for “many years”, the America had “expanded the interpretation” of domestic safety, abused foreign shipment regulations and “adopted unfair treatments against Beijing.

“Using” import duty warnings is not the proper method to deal with China,” the official stated.

“The nation’s view” on a trade conflict has remained unchanging: we are not seeking one, but we are not afraid of one.”

Last week, China revealed it was reinforcing foreign shipment restrictions on rare earth minerals and additional substances essential to high-technology production.

The action was viewed as a significant step, as the country processes about the vast majority of the planet’s critical minerals, which are used in goods such as renewable energy components and mobile phones.

The recent comments from both governments are being viewed by analysts as a means of bolstering negotiating stances ahead of future trade talks.

Remains uncertain whether a meeting between the former president and Xi Jinping, expected at a conference in South Korea later this month, will take place as planned.