By Alexandra Gibbs, CNBC–

U.S. stock index futures fell deep into negative territory ahead of Friday’s open, as the topic of trade continues to resurface.

Around 5:30 a.m. ET, Dow futures slipped 133 points, indicating a negative open of 111.31 points. The Nasdaq and the S&P 500 futures also indicated a downbeat start to the session for their respective markets.

The moves in pre-market trade come after U.S. markets finished the previous day’s trading on a mixed note. The Nasdaq composite hit an all-time high during Thursday’s session, with the S&P 500 also closing in the black. The Dow Jones industrial average however failed to hold onto gains.

Looking at markets overseas, European stocks came under pressure, while Asian-Pacific markets finished on a relatively mixed to lower note.

Investors have been on edge in recent hours as the U.S. is expected to announce more tariffs on China. On Friday, President Donald Trump is predicted to announce additional tariffs that will hit $50 billion worth of Chinese goods, with the Asian nation also ready to retaliate if necessary.

Switching focus, a slew of economic data are due. At 8:30 a.m. ET, the Empire State manufacturing survey is due out, followed by industrial production at 9:15 a.m. ET, consumer sentiment at 10 a.m. ET and Treasury International Capital (TIC) figures, out at 4 p.m. ET.

Friday also marks Quadruple Witching Day, where volatility is likely as stock index futures, stock index options, stock options, and single-stock futures expire.

Following the Federal Reserve’s decision to increase short-term interest rate by a quarter percentage point on Wednesday, investors will be turning their attention to a central banking speech due to take place in Texas.

In Fort Worth, Dallas Fed President Robert Kaplan is expected to be present at the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce’s Leaders in Business event.

In earnings, Canada Goose is scheduled to publish its latest corporate results.

—CNBC’s Yen Nee Lee contributed to this report