Beijing Slams US of ‘Contradictory Stances’ Regarding Trade Levy Warning

Trump’s latest threat to enforce an further 100% tariff on items imported from China has been called a “typical example” of United States’ contradictory behavior, as stated by the Beijing administration.

A official from China’s Commerce Ministry additionally remarked that Beijing could introduce its own unspecified “retaliatory steps” if the White House occupant executes his warning, adding that the country was “fearless” of a looming trade war.

This past Friday, Trump retaliated at China’s decision to tighten its rules for overseas sales of rare earths, alleging the Chinese leadership of “turning aggressive” and attempting to hold the global community “captive”.

He also warned to withdraw from a planned meeting with Beijing’s head of state Xi Jinping, which was set for a conference in the Republic of Korea before the month ends.

His statements on last Friday shook financial markets, with the S&P 500 share index falling by over two and a half percent, marking its largest decline since April.

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

In May, the two sides had agreed to drop high import duties on each other’s goods, which had led to concerns of trade halting between the two countries.

Consequently, American import duties on Chinese imports facing an added thirty percent tariff compared with the start of the year, while US goods entering the Chinese market face a 10% tariff.

China’s latest remarks – published by the relevant government department in the manner of official answers to media inquiries – reflected terminology from the zenith of the latest commercial tensions.

Officials denounced American limits on exports on electronic components while justifying Beijing’s export controls on rare earths as “normal actions” to protect state interests and that of the global community.

The official stated that for “many years”, the America had “broadened the definition” of national security, misused foreign shipment regulations and “enforced” biased policies against China.

“Turning to” trade levy ultimatums is not the proper method to interact with Beijing,” the official said.

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

Recently, the Chinese government announced it was reinforcing foreign shipment restrictions on rare earths and further resources vital for cutting-edge industry.

This move was regarded as a significant step, as the nation processes about ninety percent of the planet’s critical minerals, which are used in items such as renewable energy components and handheld devices.

Latest statements from the US and China are being viewed by some as a method of strengthening positions in preparation for future trade talks.

It is unclear whether a meeting between Donald Trump and China’s leader, scheduled at a high-level meeting in the Republic of Korea in the coming weeks, will take place as planned.