China Strikes Back with Heavy Tariffs
China has raised tariffs on US goods to 84%, starting Thursday. This comes as a direct response to Donald Trump’s 104% tariff on Chinese products. The jump from the earlier 34% rate shows that China is ready to push back hard.
Trump Urges Companies to Return Home
Donald Trump responded quickly. He posted on Truth Social, asking American companies to move back to the United States. “Don’t wait, do it now!” he urged. He also told the public, “BE COOL! Everything is going to work out well. The USA will be bigger and better than ever before!” He followed with, “THIS IS A GREAT TIME TO BUY!! DJT.”
Europe Enters the Trade Fight
The European Union has decided to hit back too. It plans to apply tariffs on some US products starting April 15. More will follow in May and December. While the full list is not out yet, agriculture looks like an early target. Poultry, corn, and fruit could all be affected. Motorcycles may also face tariffs.
American Whiskey May Avoid Tariffs
One product might escape punishment. American whiskey is not likely to be targeted. Trump has threatened to raise tariffs even higher if the EU touches whiskey. Also, the EU wants to protect the struggling spirits industry.
Markets React with Uncertainty
The financial markets responded with mixed signals. US stocks had a quiet start, but European markets dropped. At the same time, many investors sold off US government bonds. These bonds are usually seen as a safe option during global uncertainty.
Trump Says Countries Want to Deal
Trump claimed other countries are eager to talk. “They’re calling up and kissing my ass,” he said, in another post on his platform.
Warnings from Wall Street
JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon appeared on Fox News to share his thoughts. He said it makes sense to fix trade issues. However, he warned that deals take time and are never simple. He also predicted that a recession in the US is a likely outcome.
Global Trade War Getting Hotter
This is the EU’s first major response since Trump launched his latest round of tariffs. The tension now feels like a repeat of the earlier steel and aluminum conflict. With big economies now trading blows, pressure is building on all sides.
