Asian Markets React to US-China Trade Developments

On Tuesday, the major stock markets across the Asia-Pacific region experienced a mostly upward trend. Investors were closely analyzing the implications of United States President Donald Trump's recent decision to halt tariff policies against Canada and Mexico, while maintaining tariffs on China. In response, Beijing has announced its own set of retaliatory measures, further complicating the trade landscape between the two economic giants.

Market Movements Across the Region

Japan's Nikkei 225 saw a notable increase, rising by 0.76% or 292 points by 7:09 am CET, as the dollar gained 0.35% against the yen, reaching ¥155.2395. Shortly after, South Korea's Kospi index also experienced growth, climbing by 1.15%. Meanwhile, Australia's S&P/ASX 200 ended the day with no significant change. The Chinese markets remained closed in observance of the Lunar New Year, but Hong Kong's Hang Seng index surged by 1.95% or 394 points by 7:11 am CET, reflecting a positive sentiment among investors in the region.