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Escalation and Truce: US-China Trade War

2024-05-142026-03 · 10 events · 10 days covered

How Did We Get Here

The US-China trade war saw significant developments from 2024 to 2026. In May 2024, the US increased tariffs on Chinese imports, targeting key sectors. By September, these tariffs were finalized, marking a major escalation. In 2025, under President Trump, tariffs were raised further, leading to immediate retaliation from China. A temporary truce in May 2025 reduced tariffs, but tensions flared again in October with new US tariffs and export controls. A partial de-escalation occurred during the APEC summit in Busan. In 2026, the US Supreme Court struck down certain tariffs, challenging executive authority, while China's trade surplus reached a record high, showcasing its adaptability.

Timeline
2024

U.S. Increases Tariffs on Chinese Imports

May 14
Sep 13

Finalization of U.S. Tariff Increases

2025

U.S. Raises Tariffs by 10%

Feb 1
Apr 2

U.S. Imposes 34% Tariff on Chinese Imports

China Retaliates with 34% Tariff on U.S. Goods

Apr 3
May 12

Temporary Truce and Tariff Reduction

U.S. Announces 100% Tariffs and Export Controls

Oct 10
Oct 30

U.S.-China Trade Talks in Busan

2026

U.S. Supreme Court Strikes Down Tariffs

Feb 1
Mar 1

China's Trade Surplus Reaches Record High