China has officially imposed a sweeping 84% tariff on U.S. imports, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing trade conflict between the world’s two largest economies.
The retaliatory measure follows a fresh U.S. tariff hike announced Wednesday by President Donald Trump, raising duties on Chinese goods to 125%. Chinese officials condemned the move as “blackmail,” vowing to resist economic pressure from Washington.
As tensions deepen, Beijing is actively strengthening ties with other global partners. Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao held talks with EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič on Tuesday, with both sides agreeing to enhance market access and business conditions.
In 2024, China remained the EU’s top import source and third-largest export destination, despite a growing trade imbalance. Tariffs on imports from some other countries have been temporarily suspended, while Beijing has yet to formally respond to Washington’s latest measures.
