By Gwurld4026 
Escalating Trade Battle: China’s 84% Tariffs on US Goods
The ongoing trade conflict between the United States and China has intensified significantly. On April 9, 2025, China announced an 84% tariff on all U.S. imports, a direct response to President Donald Trump’s cumulative 104% tariffs on Chinese goods.
Key Developments:
- U.S. Tariffs: The Trump administration imposed a series of tariffs totaling 104% on Chinese imports.
- China’s Retaliation: In retaliation, China increased tariffs on American goods to 84% and placed several U.S. companies, including American Photonics and Novotech, on its export control list, effectively banning them from trade and investment activities in China.
- Global Market Impact: These escalating measures have led to significant volatility in global markets. European indices such as the FTSE 100, Germany’s DAX, and France’s CAC 40 each fell by approximately 3%. In contrast, Chinese stock markets experienced modest gains, supported by government interventions.
- Oil Prices: Concerns over reduced global demand have caused oil prices to drop to their lowest levels since 2021.
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has indicated potential trade agreements with allies and group negotiations with China. However, President Trump has urged companies to relocate to the U.S. to circumvent tariffs.
Economists are warning that the prolonged trade standoff could lead to significant economic consequences, including a potential slowdown or recession. The tariffs are expected to increase costs for consumers and businesses, contributing to inflationary pressures.