Sweeping new U.S. tariffs introduced by President Donald Trump took effect early Wednesday, significantly raising trade tensions with key partners across Asia and Europe, according to Anadolu Agency. 

Under the new framework, a massive 104% tariff on Chinese imports was implemented at 12:01 a.m. Eastern Time (0401 GMT), marking the highest among a broad range of global tariff hikes. Other affected countries include Cambodia (49%), Vietnam (46%), Thailand (36%), Pakistan (29%), India (26%), South Korea (25%), and Japan (24%).

The White House originally proposed a 34% tariff on Chinese goods, but that figure was tripled just before implementation. “This is a necessary correction to years of unfair trade practices,” said White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt on Tuesday.

China is expected to respond with retaliatory measures, though no official steps have been announced yet. Meanwhile, U.S. allies Japan and South Korea have indicated a preference for dialogue over retaliation.

Leavitt also confirmed that nearly 70 countries have already reached out to the White House seeking negotiations in light of the new tariffs.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen held talks with Chinese Premier Li Qiang on Tuesday, urging restraint and a diplomatic resolution to the growing trade rift. Li stated that China is “fully capable of countering external shocks” and has "ample policy tools" at its disposal.

Across Asia, countries are quickly mobilizing diplomatic efforts:

• Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto said Jakarta is prepared to open trade talks with Washington, emphasizing a preference for diplomacy.

• Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet announced plans to dispatch a delegation to the U.S. to address the newly imposed 49% tariff.

• South Korea’s acting President Han Duck-soo confirmed the country’s trade minister will travel to Washington immediately for talks.

• Philippine Trade Secretary Cristina Roque revealed a meeting is scheduled with her American counterpart.

• Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister Pichai Chunhavajira also plans to visit the U.S. for discussions.

During a phone call with Trump, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba warned that the 24% tariff on Japanese imports could negatively affect Japanese investment in the United States.

The newly enforced tariffs are part of President Trump’s broader strategy to reshape global trade under what the White House calls a “fair and reciprocal” system — a move that is quickly reshaping international economic relations.