Synopsis : The US-China trade war has intensified with fresh economic confrontations, from export curbs and shipping halts to political accusations and retaliatory rhetoric. China’s economy shows resilience, but key sectors like tech and trade remain under pressure.
The US-China trade war continues to evolve with high-stakes developments shaking global markets and diplomatic ties. From tightening export rules to strong verbal attacks, both nations are doubling down on their positions as tensions rise.
China’s Deputy Commissioner of the Statistics Bureau, Sheng Laiyun, hit back at Washington's aggressive tariff policies, stating that such measures violate WTO rules and threaten global economic stability. Despite this, China’s economy posted a robust 5.4% growth in Q1, driven by strong retail sales and industrial output, according to a BBC report. Laiyun noted that while tariffs may pressure foreign trade, China's growth trajectory remains solid.
In a series of fresh developments, Hongkong Post announced it will halt shipping to the US due to newly imposed duties, labeling them “unfair.” This move marks a symbolic pushback as the $800 duty-free limit on Chinese imports to the US expired on May 2.
Meanwhile, US chip giant Nvidia has taken a $5.5 billion hit after stricter export controls now require special licenses to sell AI chips to China. This is a major blow considering China is one of Nvidia’s largest markets, and it underscores the impact of escalating tech-related restrictions.
Former US President Donald Trump added fuel to the fire by declaring that “the ball is in China’s court” regarding stalled trade talks. He also accused President Biden of failing to enforce the trade deal that Trump had earlier secured, which included payments to US farmers.
China didn’t stay silent. Xia Baolong, a top Chinese official, denounced the US approach as one of “pressure, threats, and blackmail,” particularly criticizing policies affecting Hong Kong’s economy. His fiery remarks highlighted growing resistance to US strategies in the region.
Despite all this, people-to-people ties appear to be strengthening, as the Chinese Embassy in India revealed it issued over 85,000 visas to Indian citizens in just the first few months of 2025 — a potential move to build better regional bridges amidst global tension.
As the trade war expands beyond tariffs into technology, diplomacy, and public messaging, the world watches closely for the next move in this high-stakes economic chess game.
Disclaimer : This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, political, or legal advice. Please consult appropriate experts before making decisions based on the content.