China Accuses US of ‘Contradictory Stances’ Concerning Import Duty Ultimatum

Trump’s latest threat to impose an additional full import duty on items imported from China has been described as a “prime illustration” of American hypocrisy, per the China’s leadership.

A representative of the ministry also stated that Beijing could enact its own unrevealed “retaliatory steps” if the American leader executes his warning, noting that the country was “not afraid” of a looming commercial battle.

Last Friday, Donald Trump hit back at China’s decision to strengthen its regulations for foreign shipments of rare earth minerals, accusing the Chinese leadership of “adopting a confrontational stance” and attempting to hold the global community “captive”.

He also threatened to withdraw from a planned talks with Chinese leader President Xi, which was set for a meeting in South Korea in the coming weeks.

The former president’s remarks on Friday rattled global markets, with the benchmark US stock index closing down 2.7%, marking its steepest fall since last spring.

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

In May, the respective governments had reached an agreement to remove triple-digit tariffs on each other’s products, which had raised the prospect of trade halting between the two nations.

Consequently, American import duties on products from China incurring an additional import tax compared with the year’s onset, while American products entering the country incur a import levy.

China’s latest remarks – issued by the relevant government department in the form of written responses to journalist’s questions – mirrored language from the zenith of the recent trade conflict.

Officials denounced US export restrictions on electronic components while supporting Beijing’s restrictions on exports on rare earth minerals as “normal actions” to protect national security and that of all nations.

The official remarked that for “many years”, the US had “broadened the definition” of national security, misused overseas sale restrictions and “enforced” discriminatory practices against the Chinese nation.

“Resorting to import duty warnings is not the proper method to deal with China,” the official stated.

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

Recently, Beijing announced it was strengthening export controls on rare earths and additional substances critical for high-technology production.

The action was viewed as a significant step, as the country handles about 90% of the world’s rare earths, which are utilized in products such as solar panels and mobile phones.

Latest statements from Washington and Beijing are being seen by observers as a strategy of enhancing bargaining power in preparation for forthcoming discussions.

Remains uncertain whether a meeting between the former president and China’s leader, scheduled at a high-level meeting in South Korea later this month, will take place as planned.