Chinese Government Condemns US of ‘Hypocritical Policies’ Over Import Duty Ultimatum

Trump’s newest threat to introduce an additional complete levy on products from China has been labeled a “prime illustration” of American hypocrisy, as stated by the Chinese government.

A official from China’s Commerce Ministry further commented that Beijing could implement its own undisclosed “countermeasures” if the US President executes his warning, noting that the country was “fearless” of a potential trade conflict.

Last Friday, Donald Trump hit back at the Chinese government’s action to strengthen its policies for exports of rare earth minerals, accusing the Chinese leadership of “adopting a confrontational stance” and attempting to hold the global community “under its control”.

Additionally, he vowed to withdraw from a arranged meeting with China’s President Xi Jinping, which was arranged for a meeting in the Republic of Korea in the coming weeks.

His statements on last Friday shook stock exchanges, with the S&P 500 share index falling by nearly three percent, marking its largest decline since earlier this year.

His comments reignited apprehensions of a commercial dispute between the US and China.

Earlier this year, the two sides had reached an agreement to eliminate significant levies on each other’s goods, which had led to concerns of commerce ceasing between the two nations.

This left, US tariffs on Chinese imports subject to an additional thirty percent tariff compared with the start of the year, while US goods entering the Chinese market are subject to a 10% tariff.

The most recent comments from China – released by the Commerce Ministry in the manner of official answers to media inquiries – reflected terminology from the peak of the recent trade conflict.

They criticised United States controls on electronic components while supporting the country’s own restrictions on exports on key elements as “standard procedures” to ensure state interests and that of the global community.

The spokesperson stated that for “many years”, the United States had “broadened the definition” of national security, misused export control measures and “enforced” biased policies against Beijing.

“Resorting to tariff threats is not the right way to engage with the Chinese government,” the spokesperson said.

“Beijing’s stance” on a tariff war has remained consistent: we are not seeking one, but we are fearless of one.”

Recently, the Chinese government revealed it was tightening foreign shipment restrictions on rare earths and further resources critical for cutting-edge industry.

This move was regarded as a significant step, as the nation processes about 90% of the planet’s critical minerals, which are employed in products such as solar panels and smartphones.

The recent comments from both governments are being interpreted by analysts as a strategy of bolstering negotiating stances in preparation for upcoming negotiations.

Is not yet known whether a talks between Donald Trump and China’s leader, planned at a summit in Seoul in the coming weeks, will go ahead.