U.S.-China Trade War: Trump Years Timeline
- and Chinese representatives are scheduled to meet Monday in London to seek resolutions and stabilize global markets.
- Trump announced the trade talks on Truth Social last week, following a direct call with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
- The upcoming discussions prompt a look back at the timeline of U.S.-China trade relations since the start of Trump's second term, marked by tariffs, counter-tariffs, and fluctuating agreements.
dive into the escalating U.S.-China trade war with a detailed timeline of critical events since Donald Trump‘s second term. from February 2025, witness the interplay of tariffs, export controls, and retaliatory measures that have shaped the international economic landscape as both countries have worked for resolutions.The article unfolds the dramatic shifts in trade policy.Explore how trump’s actions and China’s responses have impacted global markets. News Directory 3 offers an incisive look at the key moments, including the recent London talks aimed at de-escalation.The executive order signed on February 1st, along with China’s tariffs on coal, and the subsequent actions, are dissected for a clearer understanding of the trade war’s impact. Discover what’s next as tensions continue within the ongoing war.
U.S. and China to meet in London Amid Trade War
Updated June 09, 2025
amid ongoing trade tensions, U.S. and Chinese representatives are scheduled to meet Monday in London to seek resolutions and stabilize global markets. Teh meeting follows months of volatility since President Donald Trump reignited trade disputes with China.
Trump announced the trade talks on Truth Social last week, following a direct call with Chinese President Xi Jinping. “The meeting should go very well,” Trump said.
The upcoming discussions prompt a look back at the timeline of U.S.-China trade relations since the start of Trump’s second term, marked by tariffs, counter-tariffs, and fluctuating agreements.
February 1
president Trump signed an executive order, effective Feb. 4, increasing tariffs on Chinese imports by 10% to address fentanyl imports. The order also eliminated the de minimis exemption for Chinese goods valued at $800 or less.
February 4
China’s Ministry of Finance announced tariffs, effective Feb. 10, including 15% on coal and liquefied natural gas, and 10% on crude oil and other goods.
That same day, China’s Commerce Ministry announced export controls on rare-earth minerals, citing national security and international obligations.
February 5
trump amended his previous order, allowing de minimis exemptions until systems are in place to collect tariff revenue.
february 10
Trump announced tariffs on steel imports and increased tariffs on aluminum imports from 10% to 25%, citing increased steel exports from China.
February 27
Trump directed CFIUS to restrict investors with links to China from investing in U.S. technology and other strategic sectors.
March 3
Trump raised tariffs on Chinese goods to 20%.
March 4
China’s Ministry of Finance responded with tariffs on various U.S. agricultural products.
China’s Ministry of Commerce also sued the U.S. over the March 3 tariffs through the World Trade Organization.
What’s next
the London talks aim to de-escalate trade tensions.The outcome remains uncertain, but any progress could ease concerns about global economic stability and supply chain disruptions.