Overview

• The U.S. has increased tariffs on Chinese goods to 125%, citing China's 'lack of respect' for global trade norms, while granting a 90-day tariff pause to other trading partners.
• China retaliated with an 84% tariff on U.S. goods, escalating the trade war between the world's two largest economies.
• Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning invoked Mao Zedong’s historical rhetoric, emphasizing that China will not back down and is prepared to 'fight to the end.'
• China insists that any negotiations must be based on mutual respect, equality, and reciprocity, rejecting what it perceives as unilateral U.S. pressure.
• Experts suggest internal political constraints limit Chinese President Xi Jinping’s ability to engage directly with President Trump, complicating prospects for resolution.