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Donald Trump’s newest threat to impose an further complete levy on items imported from China has been described as a “prime illustration” of United States’ contradictory behavior, as stated by the China’s leadership.

A official from China’s Commerce Ministry further commented that China could enact its own unspecified “responsive actions” if the White House occupant follows through on his threat, adding that the country was “fearless” of a looming commercial battle.

Last Friday, the former president responded at the Chinese government’s action to reinforce its rules for overseas sales of rare earth minerals, accusing the Chinese leadership of “turning aggressive” and attempting to hold the international market “captive”.

Furthermore, he threatened to pull out of a arranged meeting with Chinese leader Xi, which was expected to take place during a conference in the Republic of Korea later this month.

His statements on Friday rattled stock exchanges, with the S&P 500 share index dropping over two and a half percent, marking its steepest fall since earlier this year.

His comments reignited fears of a trade conflict between the two economic giants.

Earlier this year, the two sides had reached an agreement to remove triple-digit tariffs on each other’s products, which had created the possibility of commerce ceasing between the two nations.

This left, United States levies on products from China incurring an additional 30% levy compared with the start of the year, while American products entering the Chinese market are subject to a ten percent duty.

The most recent comments from China – published by the Ministry of Commerce in the form of official answers to media inquiries – echoed terminology from the zenith of the ongoing trade dispute.

Officials denounced United States controls on semiconductors and chips while supporting Beijing’s restrictions on exports on key elements as “normal actions” to protect domestic safety and that of every country.

The spokesperson stated that for “many years”, the United States had “expanded the interpretation” of state security, exploited foreign shipment regulations and “enforced” biased policies against the Chinese nation.

“Resorting to tariff threats is not the right way to engage with Beijing,” the official said.

“Beijing’s stance” on a import duty dispute has consistently been steady: we do not want one, but we are fearless of one.”

Last week, the Chinese government revealed it was reinforcing overseas sale regulations on rare earths and additional substances vital for cutting-edge industry.

This was seen as a significant step, as the state handles about 90% of the world’s rare earths, which are utilized in items such as renewable energy components and mobile phones.

Latest statements from the US and China are being interpreted by some as a means of strengthening positions ahead of upcoming negotiations.

It is unclear whether a talks between Trump and China’s leader, planned at a summit in Seoul before month’s end, will take place as planned.