Asia-Pacific Markets Show Mixed Reactions Amid New US Tariffs

Markets across the Asia-Pacific region exhibited mixed performances this Wednesday, as traders and investors closely monitored the latest developments in international trade. The focus was particularly sharp on the United States after President Donald Trump announced new tariff measures. These include a 25% levy on certain imports from Japan and South Korea, set to take effect from August 1.

China's Consumer Prices Bounce Back in June

On a brighter note, stocks in mainland China saw an uplift following the release of fresh economic data. The figures revealed a 0.1% year-over-year increase in consumer prices for June, marking a positive turnaround from the 0.1% decline observed in May.

Market Performances at a Glance

As of 4:35 am CET, Japan's Nikkei 225 remained unchanged, while Hong Kong's Hang Seng index dipped by 0.53%. Meanwhile, mainland China's Shanghai Composite enjoyed a 0.35% gain, with the Shenzhen Composite up by 0.52%. South Korea's Kospi rose by 0.18%, whereas Australia's S&P/ASX 200 fell by 0.33%. In currency markets, the dollar strengthened against the yen, trading at 147.0555, up by 0.33%.