China Accuses America of ‘Hypocritical Policies’ Regarding Tariff Threat
Trump’s newest threat to introduce an further 100% tariff on products from China has been labeled a “typical example” of American hypocrisy, per the Chinese government.
A representative of the ministry also stated that China could introduce its own undisclosed “countermeasures” if the White House occupant carries out his warning, adding that the country was “not afraid” of a potential trade conflict.
On Friday, Donald Trump retaliated at China’s decision to reinforce its policies for foreign shipments of critical elements, charging China of “adopting a confrontational stance” and attempting to hold the global community “hostage”.
He also vowed to withdraw from a planned meeting with China’s President Xi, which was arranged for a meeting in the Republic of Korea before the month ends.
Trump’s comments on last Friday rattled financial markets, with the S&P 500 closing down 2.7%, marking its biggest drop since April.
The president’s words revived concerns of a trade conflict between the US and China.
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 countries.
Consequently, US tariffs on products from China incurring an added import tax compared with the beginning of 2025, while items from the United States entering the country face a 10% tariff.
China’s latest remarks – issued by the relevant government department in the format of formal replies to media inquiries – mirrored terminology from the zenith of the ongoing trade dispute.
Officials denounced US export restrictions on semiconductors and chips while defending the country’s own restrictions on exports on rare earth minerals as “standard procedures” to protect state interests and that of all nations.
The official remarked that for “a long time”, the United States had “broadened the definition” of state security, exploited foreign shipment regulations and “adopted unfair treatments against Beijing.
“Using” trade levy ultimatums is not the right way to deal with Beijing,” their representative said.
“The nation’s view” on a trade conflict has remained consistent: we are not seeking one, but we are not afraid of one.”
Last week, Beijing declared it was reinforcing export controls on rare earths and further resources essential to cutting-edge industry.
The action was viewed as a important measure, as the country processes about ninety percent of the world’s rare earths, which are employed in goods such as photovoltaic modules and smartphones.
New remarks from the US and China are being viewed by some as a method of enhancing bargaining power in preparation for upcoming negotiations.
Remains uncertain whether a talks between the former president and Xi Jinping, expected at a conference in the Republic of Korea in the coming weeks, will take place as planned.