Beijing Slams America of ‘Double Standards’ Regarding Import Duty Ultimatum

Donald Trump’s most recent ultimatum to impose an additional full import duty on products from China has been labeled a “prime illustration” of American hypocrisy, according to the Chinese government.

A representative of the ministry further commented that China could enact its own unrevealed “responsive actions” if the White House occupant carries out his pledge, adding that the country was “unafraid” of a looming commercial battle.

Last Friday, Donald Trump retaliated at the Chinese government’s action to tighten its regulations for overseas sales of critical elements, charging the Chinese leadership of “turning aggressive” and attempting to hold the global community “captive”.

Additionally, he threatened to withdraw from a scheduled summit with Chinese leader Xi, which was arranged for a summit in the Republic of Korea before the month ends.

The former president’s remarks on Friday shook stock exchanges, with the S&P 500 share index closing down nearly three percent, marking its steepest fall since April.

These statements reignited concerns of a trade war between the United States and China.

This past spring, the two sides had agreed to remove triple-digit tariffs on each other’s products, which had created the possibility of bilateral trade stopping between the two nations.

Consequently, United States levies on Chinese imports subject to an additional import tax compared with the start of the year, while American products entering the country are subject to a import levy.

The most recent comments from China – released by the relevant government department in the manner of formal replies to media inquiries – echoed language from the zenith of the recent trade conflict.

Officials denounced United States controls on chips and semi-conductors while defending the country’s own export controls on rare earths as “routine measures” to safeguard national security and that of the global community.

Their representative said that for “a long time”, the United States had “overstretched the concept of national security, abused export control measures and “adopted biased policies against Beijing.

“Using” import duty warnings is not the proper method to deal with China,” the spokesperson commented.

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

Last week, China declared it was tightening overseas sale regulations on rare earth minerals and further resources essential to advanced tech manufacturing.

The action was viewed as a significant step, as the country processes about ninety percent of the planet’s critical minerals, which are utilized in goods such as solar panels and handheld devices.

Latest statements from the US and China are being viewed by observers as a means of bolstering negotiating stances prior to upcoming negotiations.

It is unclear whether a talks between Donald Trump and China’s leader, expected at a conference in Seoul in the coming weeks, will take place as planned.