Chinese Government Condemns United States of ‘Double Standards’ Over Import Duty Ultimatum

Trump’s latest ultimatum to introduce an further full import duty on Chinese goods has been called a “classic case” of US double standards, per the China’s leadership.

A Commerce Ministry spokesperson further commented that China could implement its own unspecified “countermeasures” if the US President executes his pledge, adding that the country was “unafraid” of a looming trade conflict.

Last Friday, Trump retaliated at Beijing’s move to reinforce its policies for overseas sales of critical elements, alleging the Chinese leadership of “turning aggressive” and attempting to hold the global community “hostage”.

Additionally, he threatened to withdraw from a arranged summit with China’s President Xi Jinping, which was set for a conference in Seoul in the coming weeks.

Trump’s comments on last Friday rattled stock exchanges, with the S&P 500 closing down nearly three percent, marking its largest decline since earlier this year.

His comments renewed concerns of a commercial dispute between the two economic giants.

This past spring, the respective governments had agreed to eliminate high import duties on each other’s products, which had created the possibility of commerce ceasing between the two nations.

This left, US tariffs on products from China subject to an additional import tax compared with the beginning of 2025, while US goods entering China are subject to a ten percent duty.

China’s latest remarks – issued by the relevant government department in the manner of official answers to media inquiries – mirrored language from the peak of the ongoing trade dispute.

They criticised American limits on exports on chips and semi-conductors while supporting Beijing’s overseas sale regulations on key elements as “normal actions” to protect state interests and that of all nations.

The official stated that for “a long time”, the America had “overstretched the concept of national security, misused export control measures and “enforced” unfair treatments against China.

“Using” trade levy ultimatums is not the correct approach to engage with China,” their representative said.

“The nation’s view” on a trade conflict has always been unchanging: we are not seeking one, but we are fearless of one.”

Recently, the Chinese government revealed it was tightening export controls on key elements and other materials essential to high-technology production.

The action was viewed as a key move, as the state processes about ninety percent of the planet’s critical minerals, which are utilized in items such as renewable energy components and mobile phones.

The recent comments from the US and China are being seen by analysts as a strategy of strengthening positions ahead of upcoming negotiations.

It is unclear whether a meeting between Trump and President Xi, expected at a summit in the Republic of Korea later this month, will go ahead.