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In a sharp escalation of the trade conflict, China has imposed a 34% tariff on all imports from the United States, effective April 10, 2025. The move is in direct response to President Donald Trump’s sweeping new tariffs on Chinese goods, which came into effect a day earlier.

The Chinese Ministry of Commerce stated that the decision is meant to protect national economic interests and counteract the "unilateral and protectionist policies" introduced by Washington. With the new tariffs, the total rate of duties on US goods entering China now stands at a staggering 54%.

Additionally, China has placed export restrictions on key rare earth elements and suspended imports from specific US poultry firms, citing safety concerns. The Chinese government has also filed a complaint at the World Trade Organization (WTO), claiming the US tariffs violate international trade laws.

President Trump, in response, took to his social media platform, Truth Social, stating, “China played it wrong,” and reaffirmed his commitment to reshaping global trade dynamics.

Economists warn that the tit-for-tat tariffs could lead to global supply chain disruptions, increased consumer prices, and further instability in financial markets. The Dow Jones Industrial Average has already plunged over 2,200 points in reaction to the news, marking its worst performance since the pandemic era.