The ongoing trade tensions between the United States and China have escalated as Beijing announced a 15 percent tariff on U.S. imports of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and coal.
Plateau News reports that this move by the Chinese government is in retaliation to the U.S. tariffs imposed on Chinese goods.
Details of China’s Countermeasures
The Chinese Ministry of Finance disclosed on Tuesday that, in addition to the 15 percent tariff on LNG and coal, a 10 percent tariff will be imposed on U.S. oil and agricultural machinery imports starting February 10. Beijing also launched an antitrust investigation into American tech giant Google, signaling a broadening of the dispute.
U.S. Tariffs in Context
The U.S. government, under an order from President Donald Trump, is set to implement a 10 percent tariff on all Chinese imports.
The tariffs were expected to take effect shortly after midnight on Tuesday, Washington time (0500 GMT).
Canada and Mexico Tariff Delay
In a related development, tariffs on goods from Canada and Mexico, which were announced by Trump on the same day, have been postponed for a month following agreements with those nations.
However, no such agreement has been reached with China, further straining U.S.-China trade relations.
Potential Talks
President Trump hinted on Monday that discussions with Chinese officials were expected within 24 hours, signaling a possibility for diplomatic resolution.
Background on Trump’s Trade Stance
Since taking office in 2017, Trump has maintained a strong stance on trade, imposing several tariffs on foreign goods.
His recent re-election in November reaffirmed his protectionist trade agenda, which continues to shape U.S. foreign economic policies.