China-US trade war heats up
Energy isn't at the core of current trade tensions, but US exports could emerge as a bargaining tool as the spat moves toward negotiations
US President Donald Trump has insisted on Twitter that the US is not engaged in a trade war with China, but the severity of this week's opening salvos suggests that economic tensions between the countries are more likely to expand than contract in the coming weeks and months. Washington struck first by placing 25% tariffs on $50bn's worth of Chinese imports, as Trump at last followed through on a consistent theme of his protectionist campaign rhetoric. But Beijing quickly shot back with tariffs of its own on a range of US goods including soybeans, beef, chemicals and cars, aiming to inflict not just economic damage on the US but also political injury to Trump. Markets tumbled in response on
Also in this section
21 April 2026
After overcoming a COVID-induced demand collapse with several years of successful market management, geopolitical events have conspired to provide the pact’s biggest test to date
21 April 2026
The regime’s policy of using nuclear ambiguity as a deterrent may have failed but it has realised it has other cards to play, while its neighbours are reappraising their approach to security
21 April 2026
As the global energy system undergoes a fundamental realignment, Algihaz Holdings has established itself as a critical player bridging conventional energy markets and the next generation of renewable infrastructure.
21 April 2026
The 25th WPC Energy Congress is taking place from 11-15 October 2026 at the Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Center.
