Asian markets ended mostly in red on Wednesday after China said it would seek permission from the World Trade Organization next week to impose sanctions on US goods in retaliation for Washington's non-compliance with a ruling in a dispute over dumping duties. Investors also braced for a protracted trade war between the world's two biggest economies after US President Donald Trump said the US was taking a tough stance with China. Media reports suggested that China is putting off accepting license applications from American businesses hoping to operate in the country, as the Trump administration prepares to impose tariffs on all $500 billion-plus imports from China. Japanese shares ended lower on concerns over tourism demand and potential damage to business after a powerful earthquake in Hokkaido.
Asian Indices | Last Trade | Change in Points | Change in % |
Shanghai Composite | 2,656.11 | -8.69 | -0.33 |
Hang Seng | 26,345.04 | -77.51 | -0.29 |
Jakarta Composite | 5,798.15 | -32.97 | -0.57 |
KLSE Composite | 1,785.25 | -13.92 | -0.77 |
Nikkei 225 | 22,604.61 | -60.08 | -0.27 |
Straits Times | 3,124.65 | 14.74 | 0.47 |
KOSPI Composite | 2,282.92 | -0.28 | -0.01 |
Taiwan Weighted | 10,722.57 | -29.73 | -0.28 |
