Beijing Slams US of ‘Double Standards’ Over Tariff Threat
Donald Trump’s newest ultimatum to impose an further 100% tariff on items imported from China has been called a “typical example” of US double standards, as stated by the Beijing administration.
A Commerce Ministry spokesperson also stated that Beijing could introduce its own unrevealed “responsive actions” if the US President follows through on his threat, emphasizing that the country was “fearless” of a possible trade war.
Last Friday, Donald Trump responded at the Chinese government’s action to strengthen its regulations for exports of critical elements, accusing Beijing of “turning aggressive” and attempting to hold the global community “captive”.
Additionally, he vowed to pull out of a arranged summit with Beijing’s head of state President Xi, which was arranged for a summit in Seoul before the month ends.
His statements on last Friday rattled stock exchanges, with the S&P 500 share index falling by 2.7%, marking its largest decline since earlier this year.
His comments renewed fears of a commercial dispute between the US and China.
This past spring, the respective governments had agreed to remove high import duties on each other’s products, which had led to concerns of trade halting between the economic powers.
Consequently, American import duties on Chinese imports subject to an added 30% levy compared with the year’s onset, while US goods entering the Chinese market face a ten percent duty.
Beijing’s recent statements – released by the relevant government department in the form of formal replies to media inquiries – mirrored terminology from the zenith of the latest commercial tensions.
Officials denounced US export restrictions on electronic components while justifying Beijing’s restrictions on exports on rare earth minerals as “normal actions” to safeguard state interests and that of all nations.
The spokesperson said that for “a long time”, the US had “broadened the definition” of state security, exploited foreign shipment regulations and “implemented” unfair treatments against the Chinese nation.
“Using” import duty warnings is not the proper method to interact with the Chinese government,” the spokesperson commented.
“The nation’s view” on a trade conflict has consistently been consistent: we are not seeking one, but we are fearless of one.”
Last week, China declared it was reinforcing foreign shipment restrictions on rare earth minerals and additional substances vital for cutting-edge industry.
This was seen as a significant step, as the state handles about the vast majority of the planet’s critical minerals, which are employed in goods such as solar panels and smartphones.
The recent comments from the US and China are being seen by analysts as a strategy of enhancing bargaining power in preparation for forthcoming discussions.
Is not yet known whether a talks between Trump and President Xi, scheduled at a high-level meeting in Seoul in the coming weeks, will take place as planned.