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The former US president’s most recent warning to introduce an additional complete levy on products from China has been called a “prime illustration” of American hypocrisy, according to the China’s leadership.

A Commerce Ministry spokesperson further commented that Beijing could introduce its own unrevealed “countermeasures” if the White House occupant follows through on his pledge, adding that the country was “fearless” of a looming trade war.

On Friday, the former president hit back at China’s decision to strengthen its regulations for exports of rare earths, accusing China of “turning aggressive” and attempting to hold the international market “captive”.

Furthermore, he warned to withdraw from a planned talks with China’s President Xi, which was set for a meeting in South Korea later this month.

The former president’s remarks on last Friday shook global markets, with the benchmark US stock index dropping nearly three percent, marking its largest decline since earlier this year.

The president’s words reignited apprehensions of a commercial dispute between the two economic giants.

In May, the both nations had consented to eliminate triple-digit tariffs on each other’s imports, which had created the possibility of trade halting between the economic powers.

Consequently, US tariffs on Chinese imports subject to an additional 30% levy compared with the year’s onset, while US goods entering China are subject to a 10% tariff.

The most recent comments from China – issued by the Ministry of Commerce in the format of written responses to press queries – reflected language from the height of the ongoing trade dispute.

Officials denounced United States controls on electronic components while justifying China’s own overseas sale regulations on key elements as “routine measures” to ensure national security and that of every country.

The official said that for “many years”, the America had “broadened the definition” of national security, misused export control measures and “enforced” discriminatory practices against China.

“Resorting to import duty warnings is not the correct approach to engage with the Chinese government,” the official stated.

“The nation’s view” on a import duty dispute has always been steady: we are not seeking one, but we are fearless of one.”

Recently, Beijing declared it was strengthening export controls on rare earths and further resources vital for cutting-edge industry.

This was seen as a important measure, as the country handles about 90% of the planet’s critical minerals, which are employed in products such as renewable energy components and mobile phones.

New remarks from both governments are being interpreted by some as a method of enhancing bargaining power prior to upcoming negotiations.

Remains uncertain whether a talks between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping, expected at a high-level meeting in South Korea in the coming weeks, will still proceed.