April 10, 2025 The trade war between the United States and China has entered a brand new and more violent phase. Dec. 10, 2025. With the recent decree signed by President Donald Trump, the customs duty rate applied to products imported from China has been increased from 125% to 145%. While this increase shook global markets, it also rapidly escalated political tensions.
The US Announced Its Decision, China Immediately Responded
White House officials confirmed to CNBC that the new tax rate has been implemented. President Trump, on the other hand, in his first announcement from the Truth Social account, harshly criticized China's attitude to the market and stated that the tariffs would be 125%. However, within one night, he revised his decision and increased the rate to 145%.
China, on the other hand, did not leave this step unanswered. The Chinese Ministry of Commerce announced that they have introduced a new customs duty of 84% on products imported from the United States. In a statement made by the Chinese Foreign Ministry, in response to the US move, “We will go all the way if necessary,” the message was given.
Global Markets on Alert, Uncertainty Escalates
While Trump defends these steps he has taken, he draws attention to the trade deficit between the United States and China.Dec. Trump, who said that the US imports from China are $ 440 billion, but China buys only $ 145 billion of products from the US, considers this situation "unacceptable".
However, this tension does not concern only the two countries. Some leaders, such as the Turkish President, say that more caution should be taken. Erdogan warned against the consequences of the tension, saying, "A big hurricane that will affect everyone, not to mention small and big, is at the door, the current global order is cracking."
Trump Is Sending a Message to Other Countries As Well
Trump's new trade policy is not just aimed at China. Announcing that he had started negotiations on new tariff reductions with more than 60 countries, Trump temporarily implemented a 10% mutual reduction with these countries. Trump says that with this step, many countries are lining up to make a deal with the United States.
The Director of the US National Economic Council announced that more than 75 countries want to make new trade agreements with the Trump administration. Trump interprets this situation as proof that his tough economic policies are working and gives a message to everyone "Don't be weak, don't panic".
Tensions Are Rising in Global Trade
While Trump's harsh move against China further escalates the trade war, the temporary discount agreements he has made with other countries are aimed at increasing the bargaining power of the United States. However, China's harsh response shows that this tension will not be calmed down easily. Global markets are expected to feel the effects of this storm much more strongly in the coming days.
