Trump Declares Economic War on China with Devastating Tariffs, Beijing Vows Retaliation

In a move that has sent shockwaves through global markets, former President Donald Trump has ignited a full-blown trade war with China by slapping a staggering 54% tariff on all Chinese imports to the United States. Beijing has fired back with a furious warning, vowing “resolute countermeasures” against what it calls “unilateral bullying” from Washington.

The drastic tariff hike, announced during a fiery speech in the White House’s Rose Garden, marks a defining moment in Trump’s aggressive economic warfare, targeting China with what he calls “reciprocal” tariffs. The latest round adds 34% duties on top of the already 20% levies, effectively pricing Chinese goods out of the American market.

China’s Ministry of Commerce did not mince words in its rebuke, denouncing the tariffs as a reckless violation of international trade norms and a direct attack on global economic stability. “The United States has drawn these so-called ‘reciprocal tariffs’ based on subjective and unilateral assessments, which seriously damages the legitimate rights and interests of relevant parties,” the ministry fumed in a strongly worded statement.

Beijing has already launched a measured but strategic counteroffensive, slapping its own retaliatory tariffs on key US exports, including agricultural products and fuel, while tightening export controls on critical materials. But with this latest provocation, China may be preparing a far more severe response.

Trump, who has made China his economic punching bag since returning to the White House in January, defended his actions with his trademark bravado. “I have great respect for President Xi, great respect for China,” Trump said with a smirk, “but they were taking tremendous advantage of us. They understand exactly what’s happening… and they’re going to fight.”

Adding fuel to the fire, Trump also announced an additional 10% tariff on all US imports, with Asian economies bearing the brunt of the impact. Markets have reacted with alarm, as investors brace for a tit-for-tat battle that could destabilize global supply chains, drive up consumer prices, and push the US economy toward a fresh crisis.

With tensions at an all-time high, the world is now watching closely to see just how far China is willing to go in its retaliation—and whether Trump’s economic brinkmanship will backfire spectacularly.

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