China retaliates after Trump’s tariffs take effect

China retaliated against U.S. tariffs by imposing its own levies on American imports and launching an antitrust probe into Google, escalating trade tensions between the two nations.

China has swiftly countered U.S. tariffs with its own measures, reigniting trade tensions between the world’s two largest economies. The Finance Ministry announced a 15% tariff on coal and liquefied natural gas, along with a 10% levy on crude oil, agricultural machinery, and large-engine cars. These tariffs are set to take effect next Monday.

In a separate move, China’s State Administration for Market Regulation launched an antitrust investigation into Google over alleged competition law violations.

Additionally, China tightened export controls on key minerals critical to U.S. industries and national security, building on previous restrictions imposed on gallium in December. Beijing also blacklisted two U.S. companies and a biotechnology firm, barring them from trade and investment activities within the country.

As tensions rise, U.S. President Trump warned of further tariff hikes unless Beijing took action to curb the flow of fentanyl into the U.S. Meanwhile, the 10% tariff on all Chinese imports took effect early Tuesday.

Beijing condemned the new U.S. tariffs, labeling them a violation of WTO rules and a threat to economic relations.

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