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

Trump’s most recent ultimatum to impose an additional full import duty on products from China has been labeled a “typical example” of American hypocrisy, as stated by the Chinese government.

A Commerce Ministry spokesperson additionally remarked that China could implement its own unspecified “retaliatory steps” if the American leader follows through on his threat, adding that the country was “unafraid” of a possible trade conflict.

On Friday, Donald Trump retaliated at China’s decision to strengthen its policies for exports of rare earth minerals, alleging the Chinese leadership of “turning aggressive” and attempting to hold the world “hostage”.

Additionally, he threatened to pull out of a scheduled talks with China’s President Xi, which was set for a summit in Seoul before the month ends.

Trump’s comments on that day unsettled global markets, with the benchmark US stock index dropping over two and a half percent, marking its largest decline since April.

The president’s words reignited fears of a commercial dispute between the two economic giants.

This past spring, the two sides had reached an agreement to eliminate triple-digit tariffs on each other’s goods, which had raised the prospect of bilateral trade stopping between the economic powers.

Consequently, United States levies on products from China facing an extra thirty percent tariff compared with the year’s onset, while items from the United States entering the country are subject to a ten percent duty.

Beijing’s recent statements – released by the Ministry of Commerce in the form of written responses to media inquiries – echoed rhetoric from the height of the ongoing trade dispute.

They criticised American limits on exports on chips and semi-conductors while justifying Beijing’s restrictions on exports on rare earth minerals as “normal actions” to ensure domestic safety and that of all nations.

The official remarked that for “many years”, the America had “expanded the interpretation” of national security, abused overseas sale restrictions and “enforced” discriminatory practices against the Chinese nation.

“Turning to” trade levy ultimatums is not the proper method to interact with China,” the official said.

“China’s position on a trade conflict has remained unchanging: we do not want one, but we are not afraid of one.”

Last week, Beijing declared it was reinforcing export controls on key elements and other materials vital for high-technology production.

The action was viewed as a important measure, as the state refines about ninety percent of the planet’s critical minerals, which are used in products such as solar panels and handheld devices.

New remarks from Washington and Beijing are being viewed by analysts as a method of strengthening positions ahead of upcoming negotiations.

It is unclear whether a talks between the former president and Xi Jinping, planned at a summit in Seoul in the coming weeks, will go ahead.