China Accuses America of ‘Hypocritical Policies’ Over Import Duty Ultimatum

Donald Trump’s latest warning to introduce an extra full import duty on Chinese goods has been labeled a “typical example” of American hypocrisy, per the China’s leadership.

A representative of the ministry additionally remarked that China could introduce its own unspecified “countermeasures” if the American leader executes his warning, emphasizing that the country was “not afraid” of a potential trade conflict.

Last Friday, Trump retaliated at China’s decision to reinforce its policies for exports of rare earths, accusing the Chinese leadership of “adopting a confrontational stance” and attempting to hold the international market “hostage”.

He also threatened to cancel a arranged summit with Beijing’s head of state Xi Jinping, which was set for a conference in Seoul before the month ends.

The former president’s remarks on that day unsettled financial markets, with the S&P 500 share index closing down over two and a half percent, marking its steepest fall since April.

These statements revived fears of a trade conflict between the United States and China.

This past spring, the two sides had reached an agreement to eliminate significant levies on each other’s imports, which had led to concerns of trade halting between the two countries.

As a result, American import duties on products from China facing an additional 30% levy compared with the year’s onset, while items from the United States entering the country incur a 10% tariff.

China’s latest remarks – released by the Commerce Ministry in the form of written responses to journalist’s questions – mirrored rhetoric from the peak of the recent trade conflict.

They criticised US export restrictions on chips and semi-conductors while defending the country’s own overseas sale regulations on key elements as “normal actions” to safeguard national security and that of every country.

The official stated that for “many years”, the US had “expanded the interpretation” of state security, exploited overseas sale restrictions and “adopted discriminatory practices against the Chinese nation.

“Turning to” trade levy ultimatums is not the correct approach to engage with the Chinese government,” their representative said.

“China’s position on a trade conflict has consistently been consistent: we are not seeking one, but we are fearless of one.”

The previous week, the Chinese government announced it was strengthening export controls on rare earth minerals and additional substances vital for high-technology production.

This was seen as a significant step, as the country refines about 90% of the global rare earth supply, which are utilized in goods such as photovoltaic modules and mobile phones.

Latest statements from the US and China are being interpreted by observers as a means of enhancing bargaining power in preparation for forthcoming discussions.

Remains uncertain whether a summit between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping, planned at a summit in the Republic of Korea before month’s end, will take place as planned.