Donald Trump quickly responded after China announced 34% tariffs on all US imports, starting April 10. The move followed Trump’s April 2 declaration of a 54% tariff on Chinese goods, calling it *‘Liberation Day’* for the US.
China condemned the US action, stating it *“seriously violates WTO rules”* and is a *“typical unilateral bullying practice”*. In response, China not only imposed the new tariffs but also added export controls on rare earth materials used in tech and EV batteries. It also filed a lawsuit with the World Trade Organization, claiming the tariffs *“undermine the global economic and trade order.”*
Trump reacted on Truth Social: *“CHINA PLAYED IT WRONG… THEY PANICKED – THE ONE THING THEY CANNOT AFFORD TO DO!”*
Beijing had already placed tariffs on US coal, LNG, crude oil, agricultural machinery, and large-engine cars in earlier rounds of retaliation.
Despite rising tensions, Trump insisted his economic strategy is working. *“TO THE MANY INVESTORS… THIS IS A GREAT TIME TO GET RICH,”* he posted, adding: *“GREAT JOB NUMBERS… IT’S ALREADY WORKING. HANG TOUGH, WE CAN’T LOSE!!!”*The escalating trade war signals growing strain between the two powers, with both sides promising to defend their interests.
