The ongoing trade tensions between the United States and China have just exploded into a full-scale economic face-off. In a dramatic move, the White House has announced new tariffs of up to 245% on Chinese exports, citing national security threats and economic retaliation from Beijing.

This decision comes after weeks of back-and-forth between the two superpowers. Here’s what’s going down:

• Earlier this month, the US imposed 145% tariffs on several Chinese goods.

• China retaliated quickly, slapping 125% tariffs on American imports and cutting off exports of key rare earth materials vital for high-tech, defense, and manufacturing industries.

• Now, the US is firing back again—harder than ever—with the steepest tariffs yet.

The White House claims this isn’t just about trade—it’s about protecting national interests. Beijing recently banned new Boeing jet orders and suspended exports of six critical rare earth elements, which are used in everything from electric vehicles and semiconductors to military equipment and satellites.

And this isn’t the first time. China had previously restricted exports of gallium, germanium, and antimony—all essential materials for strategic industries.

In a fact sheet released late Tuesday, the administration said that while over 75 countries are actively negotiating new trade deals with the US, China has chosen confrontation over cooperation.

The message from the White House is clear: America is standing its ground.

“The ball is in China’s court. China needs to make a deal with us,” said Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, quoting President Trump.

Meanwhile, China is firing back with sharp words.

“China does not want to fight, but it is not afraid to fight,” said foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian. He accused the US of “extreme pressure” and “blackmail tactics”, insisting that diplomacy must be based on mutual respect.

The future? Still uncertain. The White House hasn’t ruled out more tariffs or shipping restrictions, and with both nations digging in, the global economy could be caught in the crossfire.

This may be the most intense phase yet in the US-China trade war—and the stakes are only getting higher.