Desk:U.S. President Donald Trump has once again delivered a blow to China on the trade front. On Thursday, he announced a significant hike in import tariffs on Chinese goods, raising them to 145%, following China’s imposition of 84% retaliatory tariffs on American products. According to a report by Bloomberg, this development was detailed in a White House memorandum.
Previously, the Trump administration had levied a 20% tariff on Chinese imports, citing China’s alleged role in fentanyl trafficking. Trump had earlier proposed a 125% import tariff, aimed at reducing the U.S. trade deficit and countering Chinese tariffs on American goods.
Under the latest policy released by the White House, all goods imported from China will now face a 145% tariff. Additionally, products such as aluminum, automobiles, and items outside the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) framework will incur a 25% tariff, while all other imported goods will be subjected to an additional 10% duty.
During a cabinet meeting on Thursday, President Trump stated, “There will be some short-term costs, but in the end, this will prove to be a beautiful thing. We are in a very good position.”
Is This the Next Phase of the Trade War?
This move is part of Trump’s “America First” agenda, which aims to bring U.S. companies back home, boost domestic manufacturing, and restore trade balance. However, experts warn that these steep tariffs could lead to increased costs for consumers and disruptions to the global supply chain.
Just a day prior, Trump had announced a 90-day tariff relief for most countries — a relief that explicitly excludes China. The initial 125% tariff on Chinese goods took effect immediately and has now been raised further to 145%.
All eyes are now on China’s response and the broader impact this escalation may have on global trade.