Beijing Slams US of ‘Hypocritical Policies’ Over Import Duty Ultimatum

Trump’s latest ultimatum to enforce an further complete levy on Chinese goods has been called a “typical example” of US double standards, as stated by the Beijing administration.

A official from China’s Commerce Ministry additionally remarked that the nation could enact its own undisclosed “responsive actions” if the White House occupant follows through on his warning, emphasizing that the country was “unafraid” of a potential commercial battle.

Last Friday, the former president responded at the Chinese government’s action to tighten its policies for exports of critical elements, alleging Beijing of “adopting a confrontational stance” and attempting to hold the international market “hostage”.

Additionally, he threatened to cancel a planned summit with China’s President Xi, which was arranged for a summit in the Republic of Korea later this month.

The former president’s remarks on Friday unsettled global markets, with the S&P 500 dropping nearly three percent, marking its biggest drop since last spring.

His comments revived apprehensions of a trade conflict between the US and China.

This past spring, the respective governments had consented to remove significant levies on each other’s imports, which had led to concerns of trade halting between the two countries.

This left, United States levies on Chinese imports incurring an additional import tax compared with the year’s onset, while US goods entering China incur a import levy.

China’s latest remarks – issued by the Commerce Ministry in the format of formal replies to journalist’s questions – mirrored terminology from the peak of the latest commercial tensions.

They criticised US export restrictions on chips and semi-conductors while justifying the country’s own restrictions on exports on key elements as “normal actions” to protect state interests and that of every country.

The official said that for “a long time”, the United States had “broadened the definition” of national security, exploited foreign shipment regulations and “implemented” biased policies against China.

“Turning to” import duty warnings is not the correct approach to deal with China,” the spokesperson stated.

“Beijing’s stance” on a tariff war has remained consistent: we are not seeking one, but we are fearless of one.”

Last week, the Chinese government announced it was reinforcing foreign shipment restrictions on rare earths and other materials essential to cutting-edge industry.

This was seen as a key move, as the nation handles about 90% of the global rare earth supply, which are employed in products such as renewable energy components and mobile phones.

New remarks from both governments are being viewed by observers as a means of bolstering negotiating stances in preparation for upcoming negotiations.

It is unclear whether a talks between the former president and President Xi, scheduled at a high-level meeting in the Republic of Korea later this month, will go ahead.

Brianna Mooney
Brianna Mooney

A space science journalist with a background in astrophysics, passionate about making cosmic phenomena accessible to all readers.