The cryptocurrency market has been shaken once again following a surprise tax announcement from China
During European trading hours, China declared a 34% customs duty on all products imported from the United States. This development is viewed as a retaliation against the United States’ decision to increase taxes on Chinese goods. As global risk appetite dwindles, many cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin (BTC) 
$ 82,621, have experienced significant value loss.
China’s Tax Decision Shakes Markets
The recent announcement has reignited tensions in global trade. China’s sweeping 34% customs duty not only targets the U.S. but also negatively impacts the overall market perception among investors. This move follows U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to raise the total tax on imported goods from China to 54% on Wednesday.
Experts suggest that this development not only indicates an escalation of the trade war but also highlights growing uncertainty in the global economic outlook. ForexLive analyst Justin Low commented, “China’s response is not only negative for the U.S. but also exerts pressure on the global outlook.” Such geopolitical developments are prompting investors to shift from risky assets like Bitcoin and altcoins to safer havens like gold.
Bitcoin and Other Cryptocurrencies Lose Value
Bitcoin, which started the day at around $84,600, rapidly changed direction following China’s announcement. According to CoinMarketCap, BTC’s price fell by approximately $1,600 after the decision, dropping to around $83,000. 
The Largest Cryptocurrency Bitcoin
The drop affected not only Bitcoin but also other significant altcoins in the market. Leading cryptocurrencies like XRP, Ethereum (ETH) 
$ 1,787, Solana 
$ 115 (SOL), and Dogecoin 
$ 0.162972 (DOGE) have also retraced their daily gains, resulting in sideways trading.
For cryptocurrency investors, such sudden news highlights how sensitive the market has become recently. The sharp fluctuations in the global trading environment are impacting not only traditional markets but directly affecting the cryptocurrency market as well. Increased geopolitical and economic tensions in recent times are making short-term volatility in cryptocurrencies inevitable.
Wall Street Futures Also Decline
Alongside cryptocurrencies, futures in the U.S. stock markets also reacted sharply to China’s announcement. Futures tied to the S&P 500 and Nasdaq indices fell by over 2%, indicating a trend where investors are distancing themselves from both cryptocurrencies and stocks.
The escalation of trade wars is increasing uncertainty on a global scale. Companies reliant on the technology and manufacturing pipeline between the U.S. and China are expected to be more deeply affected in the short term. Experts warn that unless tensions between the parties ease, sharper pricing in global markets could be anticipated.
