Market Reactions Across Asia-Pacific

Investors in the Asia-Pacific region faced a mixed trading day on Friday, as the impact of United States President Donald Trump's tariffs continued to weigh on various countries and industries. Trump's recent warnings about a potentially difficult transition period have added to the economic uncertainty.

US-China Trade Tensions Escalate

Reports indicate that the US's duties on Chinese exports are set to increase to a staggering combined amount of 145%, further straining trade relations between the two economic giants.

Stock Market Performances

Japan's Nikkei 225 saw a significant drop, losing 4.41% or 1,434 points, as the dollar weakened against the yen. Similarly, South Korea's Kospi and Australia's S&P/ASX 200 experienced declines. In contrast, mainland China's Shanghai Composite and Shenzhen Composite posted gains, alongside Hong Kong's Hang Seng, which jumped by 1.10%.