In a major escalation of the US-China trade war, President Donald Trump has signed an executive order slapping new tariffs of up to 245% on Chinese imports. The announcement, confirmed through a fact sheet on the White House website, marks one of the steepest tariff hikes in recent years and has sparked global concern.
The White House defended the move, saying it was in response to China’s continued retaliatory actions. “China has left us no other option,” the statement read, emphasizing that while dozens of countries opted for negotiations, Beijing chose confrontation.
China Hits Back
China’s Foreign Ministry strongly criticized the US decision, with spokesperson Lin Jian describing the trade war as “initiated by the US” and asserting that China’s countermeasures are “reasonable and legitimate.”
“There are no winners in trade wars,” Lin said during a press briefing. “China is not looking for a fight, but it won’t shy away from one either.” He urged Washington to end its pressure tactics and return to fair and respectful dialogue.
Global Impact Looms
Analysts warn the tariff surge could further strain economic ties between the world’s two largest economies, disrupt global supply chains, and drive up costs for consumers and businesses alike.
Observers say the move signals a hardening US stance in the face of intensifying competition with China on both economic and strategic fronts. As tensions mount, the world waits to see whether diplomacy will prevail—or if the conflict will deepen further.