Trump’s Tariff Threats Shake Asian Markets!
Asian stock markets are taking a hit as former U.S. President Donald Trump renews his aggressive tariff rhetoric. His latest comments on imposing additional tariffs on China have fueled concerns about escalating trade tensions, triggering a wave of sell-offs across the region.
Trump, posting on Truth Social, reaffirmed his stance, stating, "China will also face a 10% tariff on this date. April 2 remains the deadline for reciprocal tariffs." The announcement has intensified fears of a deepening trade war, putting pressure on investor sentiment.
The impact was felt immediately in Asian markets. Japan’s Nikkei 225 plunged 2.9% to 37,150 points, while South Korea’s Kospi sank 3.2% to 2,536 points. In Hong Kong, the Hang Seng index dropped 3.1% to 22,980 points, and China’s Shanghai Composite slid 1.5% to 3,335 points. India’s Sensex was also in the red, losing 1.4% and settling at 73,600 points.
Adding to the economic jitters, Japan’s latest inflation data showed Tokyo’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) rising 2.9% annually in February, missing expectations. Meanwhile, industrial production in January fell 1.1% from the previous month, signaling weaker economic momentum.
With trade war fears resurfacing and market volatility increasing, investors remain on edge as they await further developments.
