Chinese Government Condemns US of ‘Contradictory Stances’ Over Trade Levy Warning

Donald Trump’s most recent warning to introduce an further full import duty on products from China has been called a “prime illustration” of US double standards, per the China’s leadership.

A Commerce Ministry spokesperson further commented that China could introduce its own undisclosed “responsive actions” if the American leader follows through on his threat, noting that the country was “not afraid” of a possible trade war.

This past Friday, Trump retaliated at the Chinese government’s action to tighten its policies for exports of critical elements, accusing China of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the global community “captive”.

He also warned to withdraw from a arranged meeting with Beijing’s head of state Xi, which was arranged for a summit in Seoul later this month.

His statements on Friday unsettled global markets, with the benchmark US stock index dropping nearly three percent, marking its biggest drop since last spring.

These statements renewed fears of a commercial dispute between the two economic giants.

In May, the both nations had agreed to remove significant levies on each other’s products, which had created the possibility of commerce ceasing between the two nations.

As a result, United States levies on Chinese imports subject to an additional import tax compared with the start of the year, while US goods entering the country incur a import levy.

Beijing’s recent statements – published by the relevant government department in the format of formal replies to press queries – echoed terminology from the zenith of the latest commercial tensions.

Officials denounced United States controls on chips and semi-conductors while supporting China’s own restrictions on exports on rare earths as “routine measures” to safeguard national security and that of the global community.

The official stated that for “an extended period”, the US had “overstretched the concept of national security, abused overseas sale restrictions and “enforced” discriminatory practices against China.

“Using” tariff threats is not the correct approach to engage with the Chinese government,” their representative commented.

“China’s position on a tariff war has consistently been consistent: we are not seeking one, but we are unafraid of one.”

Last week, the Chinese government revealed it was tightening foreign shipment restrictions on rare earths and other materials vital for advanced tech manufacturing.

The action was viewed as a important measure, as the nation handles about the vast majority of the global rare earth supply, which are utilized in goods such as solar panels and handheld devices.

The recent comments from the US and China are being viewed by some as a method of strengthening positions ahead of upcoming negotiations.

Is not yet known whether a meeting between the former president and President Xi, scheduled at a summit in South Korea in the coming weeks, will take place as planned.