#USChinaTensions Skyrocket in 2025

The US-China relationship faces severe strain. An escalating trade war sees unprecedented tariffs: US rates hit ~145% on Chinese goods, with China retaliating at ~125% on US imports (as reported mid-April 2025). This severely impacts global commerce, prompting the WTO to slash its 2025 trade growth forecast from +2.7% to -0.2%.

Beyond trade, friction persists over technology (semiconductor curbs vs. rare earth controls) and geopolitics, with ongoing military activities around Taiwan and heightened tensions in the South China Sea. The situation remains volatile, marked by intense strategic competition and significant economic risk.