Beijing Slams America of ‘Hypocritical Policies’ Over Tariff Threat

The former US president’s latest ultimatum to introduce an further full import duty on items imported from China has been called a “prime illustration” of American hypocrisy, per the Beijing administration.

A Commerce Ministry spokesperson also stated that the nation could implement its own unspecified “responsive actions” if the American leader follows through on his pledge, adding that the country was “not afraid” of a looming trade conflict.

This past Friday, Trump responded at Beijing’s move to strengthen its regulations for exports of critical elements, alleging China of “turning aggressive” and attempting to hold the international market “under its control”.

Furthermore, he vowed to withdraw from a scheduled summit with China’s President Xi Jinping, which was expected to take place during a meeting in Seoul in the coming weeks.

Trump’s comments on Friday rattled financial markets, with the benchmark US stock index dropping nearly three percent, marking its largest decline since earlier this year.

These statements revived concerns of a commercial dispute between the United States and China.

Earlier this year, the respective governments had consented to remove triple-digit tariffs on each other’s goods, which had led to concerns of commerce ceasing between the two nations.

As a result, US tariffs on Chinese goods incurring an additional thirty percent tariff compared with the start of the year, while American products entering the country are subject to a ten percent duty.

The most recent comments from China – issued by the relevant government department in the form of formal replies to press queries – mirrored terminology from the height of the latest commercial tensions.

Officials denounced American limits on exports on semiconductors and chips while justifying Beijing’s overseas sale regulations on key elements as “normal actions” to safeguard national security and that of the global community.

The spokesperson said that for “an extended period”, the America had “expanded the interpretation” of domestic safety, abused overseas sale restrictions and “enforced” discriminatory practices against Beijing.

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

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

The previous week, the Chinese government declared it was tightening export controls on rare earths and additional substances critical for high-technology production.

This was seen as a key move, as the country refines about 90% of the planet’s critical minerals, which are used in goods such as photovoltaic modules and mobile phones.

Latest statements from Washington and Beijing are being seen by observers as a method of strengthening positions ahead of forthcoming discussions.

Remains uncertain whether a talks between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping, expected at a conference in Seoul in the coming weeks, will take place as planned.