China Accuses US of ‘Contradictory Stances’ Regarding Tariff Threat
Trump’s latest ultimatum to impose an further 100% tariff on products from China has been labeled a “typical example” of US double standards, according to the Chinese government.
A official from China’s Commerce Ministry additionally remarked that the nation could introduce its own unrevealed “responsive actions” if the White House occupant follows through on his warning, noting that the country was “not afraid” of a potential commercial battle.
Last Friday, Trump retaliated at Beijing’s move to reinforce its policies for overseas sales of rare earths, alleging Beijing of “turning aggressive” and attempting to hold the international market “hostage”.
Furthermore, he threatened to withdraw from a planned talks with Beijing’s head of state Xi Jinping, which was expected to take place during a summit in Seoul in the coming weeks.
Trump’s comments on that day shook financial markets, with the S&P 500 share index falling by 2.7%, marking its largest decline since last spring.
His comments reignited concerns of a trade war between the two economic giants.
In May, the both nations had consented to remove high import duties on each other’s products, which had raised the prospect of trade halting between the two nations.
Consequently, United States levies on products from China subject to an extra 30% levy compared with the beginning of 2025, while American products entering the country face a import levy.
Beijing’s recent statements – released by the relevant government department in the format of official answers to journalist’s questions – mirrored language from the height of the recent trade conflict.
The remarks condemned United States controls on chips and semi-conductors while supporting Beijing’s export controls on rare earths as “routine measures” to safeguard domestic safety and that of the global community.
The official remarked that for “many years”, the America had “broadened the definition” of national security, exploited foreign shipment regulations and “enforced” discriminatory practices against China.
“Resorting to tariff threats is not the right way to engage with Beijing,” the official stated.
“China’s position on a import duty dispute has consistently been consistent: we wish to avoid one, but we are not afraid of one.”
Recently, China declared it was tightening export controls on rare earth minerals and additional substances vital for cutting-edge industry.
The action was viewed as a important measure, as the state handles about 90% of the world’s rare earths, which are used in products such as photovoltaic modules and mobile phones.
Latest statements from Washington and Beijing are being seen by observers as a means of strengthening positions prior to upcoming negotiations.
It is unclear whether a summit between Trump and President Xi, scheduled at a summit in Seoul later this month, will take place as planned.