The trade war between the world’s two leading powers is escalating. In response to the additional tariffs imposed by President Trump, China announced on Tuesday February 4 a series of retaliatory measures aimed directly at American economic interests.
American hydrocarbons in Beijing’s crosshairs
China’s Ministry of Commerce has unveiled a new taxation regime that will take effect on February 10. Imports of coal and liquefied natural gas (LNG) from the United States will now be subject to a 15% tariff. American oil is not spared, with a 10% tax that will also apply to other product categories.
China takes its case to the WTO, opening a new front against Google
In addition to customs measures, Beijing has also lodged a complaint with the World Trade Organization, denouncing a serious violation of international rules by Washington. In a parallel development, the Chinese authorities have launched an anti-monopoly investigation against Google, stepping up the pressure on US technology companies.
A context of growing tensions
These announcements come in a particularly tense climate, after Donald Trump unleashed an all-out trade offensive on Saturday, imposing tariffs of 10% on Chinese products and 25% on Canadian and Mexican imports. A meeting between Xi Jinping and Donald Trump is being considered, while Washington has temporarily suspended its measures against Canada and Mexico for a month.
Les hostilités de façade sont ouvertes. Quelques minutes après l’annonce de nouveaux tarifs douaniers de 10% sur les produits chinois importés aux US, la Chine annonce des mesures de rétortion contre les produits énergétiques américains (charbon, GNL), mais aussi et surtout sur… pic.twitter.com/oJsyI55kjJ
— Laurent Michelon Officiel (@LH_86_) February 4, 2025
Info éco – Etats-Unis – Chine : la guerre commerciale relancée
➡️ https://t.co/pSo8PU1D0l pic.twitter.com/N4LMBeVQCx— FRANCE 24 Français (@France24_fr) February 4, 2025