INTERNATIONAL

US-CHINA TRADE WAR ESCALATES: TARIFFS HEIGHTEN TENSIONS AS BOTH SIDES BRACE FOR PROLONGED STANDOFF
The ongoing trade dispute between the United States and China has caused significant disruptions to global markets and supply chains, as both nations impose severe tariffs on each other’s goods. Starting in April, the Trump administration implemented tariffs as high as 145% on several Chinese products, which prompted China to retaliate with 125% tariffs on US imports.
The US, under growing pressure to resolve the situation, has been reaching out to China through various diplomatic channels, according to a report by Yuyuan Tantian, a Chinese news platform affiliated with state-run CCTV. The report indicated that the US is the more eager party to negotiate, suggesting Washington is anxious to reach an agreement.
Despite President Donald Trump’s repeated assertions that China has sought talks, including a statement on Wednesday where he suggested a “very good chance” of reaching a deal, he emphasized that any agreement must be “fair” and align with US interests. Trump, speaking at a NewsNation "town hall," stressed that the deal should benefit the US and be negotiated on its terms.
However, China has denied these claims, stating that no talks are currently taking place. The Chinese government continues to call for dialogue but insists that it should be conducted in a “fair, respectful, and reciprocal” manner. China remains firm in its stance, with its foreign ministry releasing a video this week reaffirming its commitment to fight the trade war until the end, declaring it will “never kneel down.”
As the trade conflict escalates, global economic uncertainty continues to rise. Both Washington and Beijing are bracing for a prolonged standoff, while the international community closely monitors the situation, hoping for de-escalation but preparing for further volatility.
"This represents a significant development in our ongoing coverage of current events."— Editorial Board