Beijing Slams US of ‘Double Standards’ Concerning Trade Levy Warning

Donald Trump’s latest threat to introduce an extra full import duty on Chinese goods has been labeled a “prime illustration” of United States’ contradictory behavior, as stated by the Chinese government.

A representative of the ministry further commented that Beijing could implement its own unspecified “responsive actions” if the White House occupant executes his warning, adding that the country was “fearless” of a looming commercial battle.

Last Friday, Trump hit back at China’s decision to strengthen its policies for overseas sales of critical elements, alleging China of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the global community “captive”.

Furthermore, he warned to cancel a arranged meeting with Beijing’s head of state President Xi, which was arranged for a conference in Seoul in the coming weeks.

The former president’s remarks on Friday shook stock exchanges, with the S&P 500 share index dropping over two and a half percent, marking its biggest drop since April.

These statements renewed apprehensions of a trade conflict between the two economic giants.

This past spring, the both nations had agreed to drop significant levies on each other’s products, which had led to concerns of trade halting between the economic powers.

Consequently, American import duties on products from China incurring an extra import tax compared with the start of the year, while US goods entering the Chinese market face a ten percent duty.

The most recent comments from China – issued by the Ministry of Commerce in the manner of formal replies to media inquiries – mirrored terminology from the peak of the ongoing trade dispute.

Officials denounced American limits on exports on semiconductors and chips while justifying Beijing’s overseas sale regulations on rare earths as “routine measures” to ensure state interests and that of all nations.

The spokesperson said that for “an extended period”, the US had “expanded the interpretation” of domestic safety, exploited export control measures and “enforced” discriminatory practices against the Chinese nation.

“Using” tariff threats is not the proper method to engage with the Chinese government,” the spokesperson said.

“The nation’s view” on a trade conflict has remained unchanging: we are not seeking one, but we are fearless of one.”

The previous week, Beijing declared it was strengthening overseas sale regulations on key elements and additional substances critical for cutting-edge industry.

The action was viewed as a key move, as the state handles about ninety percent of the world’s rare earths, which are utilized in goods such as solar panels and smartphones.

New remarks from Washington and Beijing are being viewed by some as a method of enhancing bargaining power ahead of future trade talks.

Is not yet known whether a meeting between Trump and President Xi, planned at a summit in the Republic of Korea before month’s end, will go ahead.