In a shocking turn of events, former President Donald Trump has announced a jaw-dropping 100% tariff on all imports from China, shaking the very foundation of international trade. As tensions escalate, this bold move also includes strict export controls on critical software from the United States, hinting at a brewing storm that could redefine global economic relations.

This dramatic declaration, made via a post on Truth Social, suggests that the new tariffs will be in addition to existing tariffs, which already hover around a staggering 40%, depending on the goods. This is not just a political statement; it’s a bold step into the unknown, and the ramifications could be massive.

Earlier this week, in a move that sent shockwaves through the tech industry, China tightened its export controls on rare earth minerals. These minerals, integral to high-tech products like semiconductors and solar panels, now require foreign companies to secure a license for even the slightest amount. As the largest producer of these critical materials, China holds a powerful card in the global market.

Trump didn't hold back in his criticism of China's actions, labeling them “absolutely unheard of in International Trade,” and a “moral disgrace.” His sentiments resonate with many who feel the stakes are higher than ever. “It is impossible to believe that China would have taken such an action,” he stated, indicating a profound disbelief at the unfolding situation.

Set to take effect on November 1, these tariffs could be a double-edged sword. Trump hinted to reporters that these tariffs might be reconsidered, leaving a tiny glimmer of hope for diplomacy as he prepares for a scheduled meeting with President Xi Jinping.

However, the impact on the stock market was immediate and severe, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average dropping by 1.9% and the S&P 500 falling 2.71%. Heavy-hitters in the tech world, like Nvidia and Tesla, saw their stocks plummet by around 5% as investors reacted to the uncertainty.

But the drama didn’t stop there. The cryptocurrency market also felt the tremors, with liquidations reportedly ten times the dollar value of those witnessed during the infamous FTX collapse. The intertwining of these economic elements shows just how interconnected our financial systems have become.

In this rapidly changing landscape, what’s next for the U.S.-China trade relationship? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: this isn’t just a blip on the radar; it’s a pivotal moment that could alter the economic trajectory for years to come.