#USChinaTensions Tensions between the U.S. and China escalated on April 21, 2025, as both nations intensified their economic and strategic confrontations. President Trump raised tariffs on Chinese imports to 145%, prompting China to retaliate with equivalent duties and restrictions on rare-earth exports. In a significant move, China's central bank urged state-owned enterprises to prioritize the yuan in international transactions, aiming to reduce reliance on the U.S. dollar.

Amid these developments, a Boeing 737 Max destined for China was returned to the U.S., highlighting the strain on bilateral trade relations.

Concurrently, the U.S. and the Philippines commenced the Balikatan military exercises, involving 14,000 troops, to bolster regional security in the South China Sea, a move China criticized as provocative