Market Reactions Across the Asia-Pacific Region

Investors in the Asia-Pacific region faced a mixed trading session on Friday, as the impact of United States President Donald Trump's tariffs on various countries and industries continued to be a major focus. Trump's recent warnings about the potential difficulties during the transition period have added to the market's uncertainty.

US Tariffs on China Escalate

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

Individual Market Performances

Japan's Nikkei 225 experienced a significant drop, losing 4.41% or 1,434 points by 7:14 am CET, alongside a 0.88% decrease in the dollar's value against the yen. South Korea's Kospi and Australia's S&P/ASX 200 also saw declines, falling by 0.94% and 1.31% respectively. In contrast, mainland China's Shanghai Composite and Shenzhen Composite posted gains, as did Hong Kong's Hang Seng, which jumped by 1.10%.