International-News

Trump revives with tariffs: ‘Economic revolution’ but markets collapse

First US tariffs go into effect: global tensions, harsh reactions from Beijing and openings for dialogue from Europe and Asia

U.S. President Donald Trump is determined: “We will win,” he said in reference to tariffs, convinced that these measures will lead to an economic revolution for America. The first package of tariffs, amounting to 10 percent, has already gone into effect, while new increases, up to 20 percent, will be triggered as of April 9, affecting the European Union and Italy as well.

China responds firmly

Beijing immediately retaliated with mirrored tariffs of 34 percent and denounced what it considers an unfair trade war. Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun posted a message on Facebook, attaching graphs showing the collapse of indexes such as the Nasdaq and S&P 500. “The market has spoken,” he wrote, “this war was not provoked by anyone, and the U.S. should return to dialogue on an equal basis.

TikTok, a lever in the hands of the White House

Meanwhile, Trump is keeping another front open: that of TikTok. The shutdown of the popular Chinese app has been postponed for 75 days. The president is giving Beijing time to work out a deal and transfer control of the platform to U.S. entities. A strategic choice that keeps pressure on the Chinese government high.

London seeks understanding with Washington

The United Kingdom, led by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, appears ready for significant concessions to reach an agreement with the United States. According to the Washington Post, London is hoping for a quick understanding that would allow for the abolition or at least reduction of tariffs. In parallel, Emmanuel Macron and Starmer are coordinating the positions of France and the United Kingdom to present a united front in possible negotiations with Washington.

Asia moves: between confrontation and openness

Diplomatic initiatives are also multiplying in Asia. Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has already scheduled a meeting with Trump within the next week. Singapore, on the other hand, has chosen a more cautious approach: Premier Lawrence Wong has declared that his country will not impose tariffs in response, while admitting that others may not do the same. The risk of a global trade war, according to Wong, is real.

From Cambodia to Vietnam, ASEAN region seeks dialogue

Cambodia is among the hardest hit countries, with tariffs rising to 49 percent. The Cambodian government has called for direct contact with Washington to find solutions and strengthen relations. Vietnam, which has been penalized by the new measures, has also shown signs of openness: in recent talks between President To Lam and Trump, there was talk of dialogue and cooperation, a sign that the road to negotiations is not yet closed.

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