Summary
Trump escalated his trade war with China by raising tariffs to 125%, even as he dropped tariffs on other nations to ease recession fears.
China retaliated with 84% tariffs on U.S. goods, triggering a high-stakes standoff with both sides refusing to back down.
Experts warn the escalating tit-for-tat threatens global markets and diplomacy. Trump’s team calls China a “bad actor,” while Beijing frames the U.S. as a bully.
Each side believes time favors them, making de-escalation unlikely. Business leaders urge talks, but neither leader wants to appear weak.
China can pursue trade deals elsewhere, especially since the US is leaving a trade void by being so unreliable. Nobody trusts the US, nor should they considering they started it. It’s pretty clear who’s at a bigger disadvantage.