Donald Trump claims China is in panic over US tariffs — markets dip as citizens say ‘This is NOT poker… this is people’s lives!’

US President Donald Trump has fired back at China after it imposed new tariffs on American goods. The tensions between the two major economies have escalated further, sparking strong reactions both in financial markets and on social media.


On Friday, Trump said in all caps on Truth Social, “China played it wrong, they panicked — the one thing they cannot afford to do!” His post came after China responded to his earlier tariffs with a 34% duty on US products. Trump’s words suggest he believes China made a hasty and costly mistake. He sees their move as a sign of weakness.



Trump’s February executive order, which led to the new tariffs, is being challenged in court. A nonprofit group has sued his administration, calling the use of emergency powers “unconstitutional.” The group argues that these powers were not meant for imposing tariffs that affect American people directly. Meanwhile, global stock markets dropped, and oil prices fell to their lowest since 2021 after Trump’s latest tariff announcement.


On social media, people had mixed reactions. One user tracked the market’s movements after Trump’s post and said it was already causing investors to worry.


Another user strongly criticised Trump, writing, “This is NOT fucking Poker @realDonaldTrump this is peoples lives! This is the American Economy you’re playing with!” The emotions online reflect the uncertainty many feel about where this trade battle is headed.


With tariffs rising and tempers flaring, Trump’s trade war draws not just global market reactions — but emotional responses from citizens too.

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