Beijing Slams US of ‘Contradictory Stances’ Concerning Tariff Threat

Trump’s latest threat to introduce an extra 100% tariff on items imported from China has been described as a “typical example” of US double standards, per the Beijing administration.

A official from China’s Commerce Ministry additionally remarked that the nation could enact its own unrevealed “countermeasures” if the US President carries out his threat, noting that the country was “not afraid” of a potential trade war.

This past Friday, Trump hit back at Beijing’s move to tighten its regulations for exports of rare earths, charging China of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the world “under its control”.

Furthermore, he vowed to cancel a scheduled talks with Chinese leader President Xi, which was set for a meeting in Seoul before the month ends.

Trump’s comments on Friday rattled stock exchanges, with the S&P 500 dropping 2.7%, marking its biggest drop since April.

These statements reignited apprehensions of a trade war between the United States and China.

In May, the respective governments had agreed to remove significant levies on each other’s imports, which had created the possibility of bilateral trade stopping between the economic powers.

Consequently, United States levies on Chinese goods incurring an extra thirty percent tariff compared with the year’s onset, while American products entering the country are subject to a ten percent duty.

China’s latest remarks – published by the relevant government department in the manner of official answers to journalist’s questions – mirrored language from the peak of the recent trade conflict.

They criticised United States controls on electronic components while supporting Beijing’s restrictions on exports on key elements as “normal actions” to protect state interests and that of every country.

The spokesperson said that for “a long time”, the US had “expanded the interpretation” of national security, abused overseas sale restrictions and “enforced” biased policies against China.

“Using” trade levy ultimatums is not the right way to interact with Beijing,” their representative commented.

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

Recently, China revealed it was reinforcing overseas sale regulations on rare earth minerals and additional substances critical for high-technology production.

This move was regarded as a key move, as the state processes about the vast majority of the global rare earth supply, which are used in items such as renewable energy components and smartphones.

New remarks from the US and China are being interpreted by analysts as a strategy of enhancing bargaining power in preparation for future trade talks.

Remains uncertain whether a talks between Trump and President Xi, expected at a conference in South Korea later this month, will take place as planned.

Vincent Parks
Vincent Parks

A financial analyst with over a decade of experience specializing in precious metals markets and investment strategies.