The European Union has announced new tariffs on $23 billion worth of US goods. This is in response to the 25% tariffs that former US President Donald Trump placed on EU steel and aluminum exports. "If the US raises restrictions, we will fight to the end," China’s commerce ministry said, as China also imposed high tariffs on US goods. The EU tariffs will start in April and target products from key American states, including soybeans, poultry, and motorcycles. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent called China's move "unfortunate" and urged Beijing to negotiate. (PC: Reuters)

Universal Studios will build its first European theme park in Bedford, UK. The project, set to open in 2031, will create 28,000 jobs. “Bedford will be home to one of the biggest entertainment parks in Europe,” said Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The park will include a theme park, hotel, and shops. Universal expects 8.5 million visitors in its first year. Some locals are excited, while others worry about traffic and infrastructure. Construction starts in 2026. Universal promised to improve roads and rail links. “It will be good for the town and people,” said resident Maria Perez. (PC: Reuters, Getty Images)

In a sharp rebuttal to President Trump’s latest tariff hikes—over 100% on Chinese imports and 20% on EU goods—both China and the European Union are leveraging tariffs on U.S. soybeans to strike at the heart of American agricultural exports. China has imposed a 34% tariff, diverting purchases to Brazil, while the EU, once a growing market for U.S. soybeans, is now retaliating in kind. This move is a calculated economic counterstrike aimed at rural American voters, who form a critical base of support for Trump ahead of the 2024 elections. (PC: AFP)    

On April 9, 2025, the London High Court dismissed fugitive tycoon Vijay Mallya’s appeal against a 2021 bankruptcy order filed by Indian banks seeking to recover over £1 billion in unpaid loans. The court ruled that Mallya’s claims of full debt recovery through asset sales were unsubstantiated. The verdict strengthens the position of a consortium led by State Bank of India in seizing Mallya’s UK assets. Mallya, accused of fraud and financial misconduct tied to Kingfisher Airlines’ collapse, continues to fight extradition to India, where criminal proceedings await him. (PC: Reuters)

A nightclub roof collapsed in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, killing 113 people and injuring more than 150. The tragedy happened early Tuesday at Jet Set nightclub during a concert by merengue singer Rubby Pérez, who also died. Former baseball star Octavio Dotel and provincial governor Nelsy Cruz were among the victims. Hundreds were inside when the roof fell, and rescuers are still searching for survivors. Witnesses said they heard a noise before the collapse. President Luis Abinader shared his condolences. Authorities fear the death toll may rise as the search continues. (PC: Reuters)

Universal has revealed the first look at its £50bn theme park and resort set to open in Bedfordshire by 2031—the first Universal-branded park in Europe. The 476-acre site will feature rides inspired by films like Jurassic World, Minions, and Fast & Furious, along with a 500-room hotel and entertainment complex. An artist’s impression shows a vibrant, cinematic landscape on the former brickworks site. Universal expects 8.5 million visitors in the first year. PM Keir Starmer called the announcement “momentous” for the UK. The development still requires planning approval and will support major infrastructure upgrades across the Oxford-Cambridge corridor. (PC: Universal)

Five people were rushed to hospital after a shocking crash involving five police vehicles and a civilian car on the A1 northbound near Denton, Newcastle, UK, at around 2.30am on April 9. One unmarked police car flipped on its side, and four marked cars were heavily damaged. A civilian BMW was also involved. The crash caused major morning traffic delays, forcing authorities to shut the road between junctions 73 and 75. Emergency services urged motorists to follow diversions. “We’re working to clear the debris and investigate,” said a police spokesperson. (PC: North News & Pictures Ltd nort)

Apple airlifted five plane-loads of iPhones and other products from India and China to the US within three days in late March to avoid a 10% tariff imposed by President Trump’s administration starting April 5. Indian officials confirmed the rush shipments were aimed at stockpiling devices in US warehouses and temporarily stabilizing prices. Another 26% reciprocal tariff, effective April 9, may push Apple to expand manufacturing in India, where tariffs are 28% lower than China’s. India already accounts for most of Apple’s $9 billion smartphone exports to the US. Apple is currently analyzing global tariffs to adjust its supply chain. (PC: Daily Mail)

The UK will host Europe’s first Universal theme park, set to open by 2031 near Bedford on a 476-acre former brickworks site. Universal estimates the project will generate 28,000 jobs and attract 8.5 million visitors in its first year. Prime Minister Keir Starmer hailed it as a transformative investment, while Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy called it a showcase for British creations. The park will include rides, a hotel, and retail zones. Universal also plans to upgrade transport links, including new rail stations. Local feedback has been mostly positive, though concerns over traffic and infrastructure remain. Construction is expected to begin in 2026. (PC: Universal Destinations & Experiences/Comcas)

China announced an 84% retaliatory tariff on all US goods starting April 10, sharply escalating trade tensions with the United States. The move follows Donald Trump's sweeping 104% tariff on Chinese imports announced Tuesday. Beijing also blacklisted 12 US firms and added six to its "unreliable entity" list. The Chinese commerce ministry warned of further countermeasures if the US continues its economic aggression, stating it has "abundant means" to respond. Premier Li Qiang affirmed China’s economic resilience, expressing confidence in offsetting external shocks. US stock futures dropped after the news, deepening concerns over the global economic fallout from the trade war. (PC: AFP)