Trade War Timeline
Explore the chronology of global trade conflicts, from initial tariffs to the latest developments. Understand the escalation, negotiations, and economic impacts that have shaped international commerce.
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U.S.-China Strategic Tariff Talks
High-level discussions begin in Washington D.C. focusing on potential tariff reductions in strategic sectors including renewable energy, semiconductors, and agricultural products.
Key Developments
- Discussions on reciprocal tariff reductions for critical technology components
- Focus on potential exemptions for medical supplies and green tech
- Markets responded positively with tech and agricultural stocks rising
China Increases Agricultural Tariffs
China implements additional 5% tariffs on U.S. agricultural products, specifically targeting soybeans, corn, wheat, and pork products. This marks the first significant tariff adjustment since 2023.
Market Impact
- U.S. agricultural futures dropped 3.2% on announcement
- Farm-state representatives immediately called for countermeasures
- Estimated $4.2 billion annual impact on U.S. agricultural exports
New Administration Signals Tariff Policy Review
Following the inauguration, the new U.S. administration announces comprehensive review of existing tariff policies with particular focus on strategic industries and supply chain resilience.
Policy Directions
- Formation of Special Trade Policy Task Force
- Emphasis on semiconductor and advanced manufacturing protection
- 90-day review period announced for existing tariff structures
U.S.-EU Digital Services Framework
The United States and European Union announce new Digital Services Trade Framework, establishing tariff-free treatment for digital services and data flows while addressing taxation concerns.
Framework Highlights
- Permanent ban on customs duties for digital transmissions
- Standardized approach to digital services taxation
- Enhanced cooperation on digital regulatory standards
Key Moments in Trade War History
Initial Escalation (2018-2019)
- JAN 2018 U.S. imposes first solar panel and washing machine tariffs
- MAR 2018 Steel and aluminum tariffs (25% and 10%) imposed
- JUL 2018 First China-specific tariffs on $34B of goods
- SEP 2018 Second wave: $200B of Chinese goods at 10%
- MAY 2019 Tariff increase to 25% on $200B of Chinese goods
Phase One Deal (2019-2020)
- OCT 2019 U.S. and China announce "Phase One" deal framework
- DEC 2019 Planned tariff increases suspended
- JAN 2020 Phase One agreement signed; China commits to $200B in additional purchases
- FEB 2020 China cuts tariffs on $75B of U.S. goods
- MAY 2020 COVID impact begins affecting trade commitments
Biden Administration (2021-2024)
- JAN 2021 Biden administration maintains Trump-era tariffs
- OCT 2021 U.S.-EU steel and aluminum tariff agreement
- MAY 2022 U.S. initiates tariff exclusion process for certain products
- MAR 2023 Phase One agreement officially expires
- NOV 2023 New strategic sectors targeted with additional restrictions
Policy Documents Archive
Access original policy documents, official announcements, and government releases related to trade conflicts.
- U.S. Trade Representative Announcements Archive
- Chinese Ministry of Commerce Official Statements
- European Commission Trade Policy Documents
- WTO Dispute Settlement Cases
Expert Analysis & Reports
Access in-depth analysis from economists, trade policy experts, and research institutions.
- Peterson Institute: "Tariff War Economic Impact Assessment"
- Brookings Institution: "Global Supply Chain Disruptions"
- World Bank: "Trade Tensions and Global Growth Forecasts"
- IMF Working Paper: "Macroeconomic Effects of Tariff Escalation"
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