New Delhi, April 16 -- The US has slapped tariffs of up to 245% on Chinese imports, with syringes, lithium-ion batteries, squid, and wool sweaters among the targeted items.

The White House confirmed the steep levies late Tuesday, coinciding with President Donald Trump's executive order launching an investigation into the national security implications of America's dependence on imported critical minerals.

The latest tariff hikes follow Beijing's April 4 move to impose export restrictions on seven rare earth elements and associated magnets essential to US defence, automotive, and energy sectors.

China responded further by levying tariffs of up to 125% on US imports, intensifying the tit-for-tat trade measures.

Separately, China's Defen...