China came out swinging on Monday, accusing the United States of going back on its word. The Chinese Commerce Ministry criticized Washington’s latest tech and visa restrictions, saying they break the recent Geneva trade agreement between the two countries.
Just weeks ago, both sides agreed to reduce the massive tariffs choking global trade. China cut duties on U.S. goods from 125% to 10%. The U.S. lowered its spike from 145% to 30%. It was supposed to be a 90-day break to rebuild trust. Instead, things are already back on edge.
What Does This Mean for People?
If you’re a Chinese student planning to study in the U.S., you might be packing your bags—for the wrong reason. Over 275,000 Chinese students in America are now facing uncertainty. And for businesses? This makes global supply chains even messier and investor nerves even shakier.
Think of it like a couple that says, “Let’s take a break,” and then one of them changes the locks.
New Tech Controls Spark Backlash
The U.S. didn’t just stop at tariffs. It also blocked exports of advanced AI chips and the software needed to design them. These technologies are critical to China’s ambitions in artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and military innovation.
The Chinese Commerce Ministry said these new restrictions “seriously violate the consensus reached in Geneva” and accused the U.S. of adding fuel to the fire just when things were starting to cool down.
“Instead of reflecting on itself, it has turned the tables and unreasonably accused China,” the Ministry said.
Trump’s “Mr. Nice Guy” Era Is Over
President Trump made it clear on social media last Friday:
“The bad news is that China… HAS TOTALLY VIOLATED ITS AGREEMENT WITH US. So much for being Mr. NICE GUY!”
Hours later, he said he would speak to Chinese President Xi Jinping to sort things out—but didn’t walk back his accusations.
That’s like torching a bridge, then sending a boat across it.
Also Read “So Much for Being Mr. Nice Guy”: Trump’s Latest Blast at China Over Trade Betrayal
China Threatens Retaliation
China isn’t taking this lightly. It warned of “forceful measures to protect its rights.” The government claims it has followed every part of the agreement: slashing tariffs, suspending non-tariff barriers, and playing fair.
But with student visas at risk and chip tech locked down, China says it has no choice but to defend its national interests—whatever that might mean next.
The Bottom Line
This trade “pause” was meant to ease global tensions. Instead, it’s unraveling fast. And if both sides keep poking each other in the eye, it won’t be long before we’re back in full-blown trade war mode.
Also Read Bargain Hunt Begins: China’s Property Market Sees Fire Sales After Wanda Move
