Beijing Slams United States of ‘Hypocritical Policies’ Concerning Tariff Threat

Donald Trump’s newest threat to enforce an extra 100% tariff on products from China has been called a “classic case” of US double standards, as stated by the Beijing administration.

A Commerce Ministry spokesperson also stated that Beijing could implement its own unrevealed “retaliatory steps” if the US President follows through on his warning, adding that the country was “unafraid” of a looming trade conflict.

On Friday, Donald Trump hit back at China’s decision to strengthen its policies for overseas sales of rare earth minerals, accusing Beijing of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the international market “under its control”.

He also warned to withdraw from a arranged meeting with China’s President Xi, which was set for a summit in Seoul later this month.

Trump’s comments on last Friday rattled stock exchanges, with the benchmark US stock index dropping over two and a half percent, marking its biggest drop since earlier this year.

His comments renewed apprehensions of a commercial dispute between the two economic giants.

In May, the two sides had consented to eliminate triple-digit tariffs on each other’s goods, which had created the possibility of commerce ceasing between the two nations.

This left, United States levies on Chinese imports facing an extra import tax compared with the start of the year, while American products entering the Chinese market face a import levy.

China’s latest remarks – released by the Commerce Ministry in the manner of formal replies to press queries – echoed language from the peak of the latest commercial tensions.

The remarks condemned United States controls on chips and semi-conductors while justifying Beijing’s export controls on rare earth minerals as “routine measures” to ensure national security and that of all nations.

The spokesperson said that for “a long time”, the United States had “broadened the definition” of domestic safety, abused foreign shipment regulations and “implemented” biased policies against China.

“Using” tariff threats is not the correct approach to engage with the Chinese government,” the official said.

“China’s position on a import duty dispute has consistently been steady: we are not seeking one, but we are unafraid of one.”

Last week, Beijing revealed it was tightening export controls on key elements and additional substances critical for advanced tech manufacturing.

This was seen as a significant step, as the country handles about 90% of the global rare earth supply, which are employed in products such as renewable energy components and smartphones.

Latest statements from Washington and Beijing are being viewed by observers as a method of strengthening positions in preparation for forthcoming discussions.

It is unclear whether a talks between Trump and Xi Jinping, scheduled at a conference in the Republic of Korea later this month, will go ahead.