US-China Trade Tensions Simmer; Yellen Raises Concerns, New Tariffs Loom
Source: U.S. Treasury, MOFCOM, Reuters
Key Developments:
Yellen’s Post-Visit Warning:
U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen stated that talks with Chinese officials failed to resolve key disputes. She criticized China’s "unfair treatment" of U.S. firms and warned of further trade restrictions if subsidies for green tech (EVs, batteries, solar) continue.
New U.S. Tariff Reviews:
The Biden administration is reviewing Section 301 tariffs on $300B+ of Chinese goods, with hikes likely for EVs (25% → 100%), batteries, and critical minerals. A decision is expected early 2024.
China’s Retaliation Threat:
China’s Commerce Ministry accused the U.S. of "weaponizing trade rules" and vowed "resolute measures" if tariffs escalate. Potential targets include U.S. agriculture and Boeing orders.
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Tech War Escalation:
New U.S. export bans on advanced AI chips (Nvidia, AMD) to China took effect October 24th, disrupting supply chains. Beijing called the move "economic coercion."
Market Impact:
Crypto Volatility Sensitivity: Trade tensions may amplify BTC/ETH price swings as investors monitor risk assets. Historically, crypto sees short-term sell-offs during US-China escalations.
Commodities & Supply Chains: Tariffs could disrupt semiconductor/mining hardware production, affecting GPU-dependent projects.
USD/CNY Stability: Yuan weakness may drive Chinese capital toward crypto as a hedge (monitor USDT premiums).
