Beijing Slams US of ‘Contradictory Stances’ Regarding Import Duty Ultimatum

Donald Trump’s latest warning to introduce an extra 100% tariff on Chinese goods has been labeled a “prime illustration” of US double standards, per the Chinese government.

A representative of the ministry additionally remarked that the nation could introduce its own unspecified “responsive actions” if the White House occupant follows through on his pledge, adding that the country was “fearless” of a potential trade war.

This past Friday, the former president responded at the Chinese government’s action to tighten its rules for exports of rare earth minerals, accusing the Chinese leadership of “adopting a confrontational stance” and attempting to hold the global community “under its control”.

He also warned to cancel a planned talks with China’s President President Xi, which was set for a meeting in the Republic of Korea later this month.

His statements on Friday shook financial markets, with the benchmark US stock index falling by nearly three percent, marking its biggest drop since last spring.

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

This past spring, the two sides had consented to eliminate triple-digit tariffs on each other’s products, which had created the possibility of trade halting between the two countries.

Consequently, US tariffs on products from China incurring an extra import tax compared with the year’s onset, while US goods entering the Chinese market incur a ten percent duty.

Beijing’s recent statements – issued by the relevant government department in the form of written responses to journalist’s questions – mirrored terminology from the peak of the latest commercial tensions.

The remarks condemned United States controls on chips and semi-conductors while supporting Beijing’s restrictions on exports on key elements as “standard procedures” to protect state interests and that of all nations.

The official stated that for “an extended period”, the United States had “broadened the definition” of domestic safety, misused foreign shipment regulations and “implemented” unfair treatments against China.

“Turning to” import duty warnings is not the proper method to deal with China,” their representative stated.

“China’s position on a import duty dispute has always been steady: we are not seeking one, but we are fearless of one.”

Last week, China announced it was reinforcing foreign shipment restrictions on rare earth minerals and further resources critical for advanced tech manufacturing.

This move was regarded as a key move, as the state handles about 90% of the global rare earth supply, which are used in products such as solar panels and mobile phones.

The recent comments from both governments are being viewed by observers as a means of bolstering negotiating stances prior to upcoming negotiations.

Is not yet known whether a summit between Trump and China’s leader, expected at a high-level meeting in the Republic of Korea in the coming weeks, will take place as planned.