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Donald Trump’s latest threat to impose an further full import duty on items imported from China has been described as a “prime illustration” of American hypocrisy, according to the Beijing administration.

A representative of the ministry also stated that China could enact its own unspecified “countermeasures” if the American leader executes his pledge, noting that the country was “unafraid” of a looming commercial battle.

Last Friday, Donald Trump retaliated at China’s decision to tighten its regulations for exports of critical elements, charging Beijing of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the global community “under its control”.

He also threatened to withdraw from a arranged talks with Beijing’s head of state President Xi, which was expected to take place during a summit in the Republic of Korea later this month.

The former president’s remarks on last Friday unsettled financial markets, with the S&P 500 share index closing down nearly three percent, marking its biggest drop since earlier this year.

These statements revived fears of a trade war between the US and China.

In May, the respective governments had agreed to eliminate triple-digit tariffs on each other’s goods, which had created the possibility of trade halting between the economic powers.

Consequently, American import duties on products from China subject to an added 30% levy compared with the start of the year, while items from the United States entering the Chinese market incur a ten percent duty.

The most recent comments from China – released by the Ministry of Commerce in the format of formal replies to journalist’s questions – mirrored terminology from the zenith of the ongoing trade dispute.

The remarks condemned US export restrictions on semiconductors and chips while supporting the country’s own restrictions on exports on rare earth minerals as “normal actions” to protect national security and that of all nations.

The spokesperson stated that for “an extended period”, the US had “broadened the definition” of domestic safety, misused export control measures and “implemented” unfair treatments against China.

“Using” tariff threats is not the correct approach to engage with the Chinese government,” the spokesperson commented.

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

The previous week, Beijing revealed it was reinforcing export controls on key elements and further resources critical for high-technology production.

This move was regarded as a important measure, as the country handles about 90% of the planet’s critical minerals, which are employed in items such as solar panels and mobile phones.

New remarks from the US and China are being interpreted by analysts as a method of bolstering negotiating stances prior to future trade talks.

It is unclear whether a talks between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping, expected at a summit in Seoul in the coming weeks, will take place as planned.