Beijing Slams United States of ‘Hypocritical Policies’ Regarding Import Duty Ultimatum

Trump’s latest warning to introduce an additional full import duty on Chinese goods has been labeled a “prime illustration” of United States’ contradictory behavior, as stated by the China’s leadership.

A representative of the ministry further commented that Beijing could introduce its own undisclosed “responsive actions” if the American leader follows through on his warning, emphasizing that the country was “not afraid” of a looming trade conflict.

Last Friday, the former president retaliated at China’s decision to reinforce its policies for exports of critical elements, accusing Beijing of “turning aggressive” and attempting to hold the international market “hostage”.

He also vowed to withdraw from a planned talks with China’s President President Xi, which was expected to take place during a meeting in Seoul before the month ends.

His statements on Friday unsettled global markets, with the benchmark US stock index closing down over two and a half percent, marking its largest decline since last spring.

The president’s words revived concerns of a trade conflict between the US and China.

This past spring, the both nations had reached an agreement to remove triple-digit tariffs on each other’s goods, which had raised the prospect of trade halting between the two nations.

As a result, United States levies on Chinese imports incurring an additional thirty percent tariff compared with the beginning of 2025, while US goods entering China are subject to a 10% tariff.

The most recent comments from China – published by the Commerce Ministry in the format of formal replies to media inquiries – echoed terminology from the zenith of the recent trade conflict.

The remarks condemned United States controls on electronic components while justifying China’s own export controls on rare earths as “standard procedures” to protect national security and that of the global community.

Their representative said that for “an extended period”, the United States had “broadened the definition” of national security, exploited export control measures and “enforced” biased policies against the Chinese nation.

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

“The nation’s view” on a import duty dispute has consistently been steady: we are not seeking one, but we are fearless of one.”

Recently, the Chinese government announced it was tightening export controls on rare earth minerals and further resources critical for high-technology production.

The action was viewed as a important measure, as the nation processes about ninety percent of the world’s rare earths, which are employed in products such as photovoltaic modules and mobile phones.

Latest statements from both governments are being viewed by analysts as a method of bolstering negotiating stances ahead of forthcoming discussions.

Is not yet known whether a summit between Donald Trump and President Xi, expected at a summit in the Republic of Korea in the coming weeks, will still proceed.