Chinese Government Condemns America of ‘Hypocritical Policies’ Regarding Import Duty Ultimatum

Trump’s latest ultimatum to introduce an extra complete levy on Chinese goods has been described as a “typical example” of United States’ contradictory behavior, as stated by the China’s leadership.

A representative of the ministry also stated that Beijing could enact its own unrevealed “retaliatory steps” if the American leader carries out his threat, adding that the country was “not afraid” of a possible commercial battle.

On Friday, Donald Trump retaliated at the Chinese government’s action to reinforce its regulations for exports of rare earths, charging China of “adopting a confrontational stance” and attempting to hold the international market “hostage”.

Additionally, he warned to withdraw from a planned talks with China’s President Xi Jinping, which was set for a conference in the Republic of Korea before the month ends.

Trump’s comments on last Friday shook financial markets, with the benchmark US stock index closing down over two and a half percent, marking its steepest fall since last spring.

The president’s words renewed concerns of a commercial dispute between the US and China.

In May, the two sides had consented to drop high import duties on each other’s goods, which had created the possibility of trade halting between the economic powers.

This left, United States levies on products from China incurring an extra 30% levy compared with the start of the year, while US goods entering the country face a 10% tariff.

Beijing’s recent statements – published by the Ministry of Commerce in the format of official answers to media inquiries – echoed terminology from the height of the recent trade conflict.

The remarks condemned United States controls on electronic components while supporting China’s own overseas sale regulations on rare earths as “normal actions” to ensure state interests and that of all nations.

Their representative stated that for “a long time”, the America had “expanded the interpretation” of state security, misused export control measures and “enforced” discriminatory practices against Beijing.

“Using” tariff threats is not the proper method to interact with China,” the spokesperson commented.

“The nation’s view” on a import duty dispute has remained steady: we wish to avoid one, but we are fearless of one.”

Recently, the Chinese government announced it was reinforcing overseas sale regulations on rare earths and further resources vital for high-technology production.

This move was regarded as a important measure, as the nation refines about 90% of the world’s rare earths, which are employed in goods such as solar panels and mobile phones.

Latest statements from both governments are being viewed by observers as a strategy of strengthening positions prior to future trade talks.

Is not yet known whether a talks between the former president and China’s leader, scheduled at a summit in South Korea before month’s end, will still proceed.