If re-elected to the US presidency, Donald Trump said he would use the threat of severe trade tariffs — or even the prospect of shutting down trade — to effectively deter China from invading Taiwan.

Speaking to a newspaper editorial board, Trump said he would impose tariffs on China if it sought to blockade Taiwan.

Chinese President, Xi Jinping, has directed the military to enhance its preparedness for war and boost its combat capabilities, signalling a heightened

Chinese state media reported on Saturday, October 19, that Chinese leader Xi Jinping called on troops to step up their combat readiness. The reports came just days after the Chinese army completed large-scale military exercises near Taiwan.