China Accuses United States of ‘Hypocritical Policies’ Over Import Duty Ultimatum

Donald Trump’s latest ultimatum to enforce an additional full import duty on Chinese goods has been described as a “classic case” of United States’ contradictory behavior, according to the Chinese government.

A representative of the ministry further commented that the nation could enact its own undisclosed “countermeasures” if the White House occupant follows through on his warning, emphasizing that the country was “fearless” of a possible trade war.

This past Friday, the former president responded at China’s decision to strengthen its regulations for exports of rare earths, accusing Beijing of “turning aggressive” and attempting to hold the global community “hostage”.

He also threatened to cancel a arranged summit with Chinese leader President Xi, which was arranged for a summit in the Republic of Korea in the coming weeks.

Trump’s comments on that day rattled global markets, with the benchmark US stock index closing down 2.7%, marking its biggest drop since April.

The president’s words revived apprehensions of a commercial dispute between the two economic giants.

Earlier this year, the respective governments had agreed to remove triple-digit tariffs on each other’s goods, which had created the possibility of commerce ceasing between the two nations.

As a result, US tariffs on Chinese goods subject to an extra 30% levy compared with the year’s onset, while items from the United States entering the country are subject to a 10% tariff.

The most recent comments from China – issued by the Ministry of Commerce in the form of formal replies to media inquiries – echoed terminology from the height of the recent trade conflict.

The remarks condemned American limits on exports on chips and semi-conductors while justifying Beijing’s restrictions on exports on key elements as “routine measures” to safeguard domestic safety and that of the global community.

The spokesperson stated that for “an extended period”, the America had “broadened the definition” of state security, misused export control measures and “implemented” discriminatory practices against Beijing.

“Turning to” trade levy ultimatums is not the proper method to deal with Beijing,” their representative commented.

“The nation’s view” on a tariff war has consistently been consistent: we are not seeking one, but we are not afraid of one.”

Last week, China revealed it was reinforcing overseas sale regulations on rare earth minerals and further resources critical for cutting-edge industry.

This was seen as a key move, as the country processes about the vast majority of the global rare earth supply, which are employed in items such as renewable energy components and mobile phones.

New remarks from the US and China are being interpreted by analysts as a strategy of enhancing bargaining power prior to future trade talks.

Remains uncertain whether a meeting between Donald Trump and China’s leader, expected at a conference in South Korea later this month, will still proceed.