Trump Imposes 245% Tariff on Chinese Goods Amid Escalating Trade Tensions
In a dramatic development in the U.S.-China trade conflict, President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Tuesday imposing a steep 245% tariff on imports from China. The administration cited Beijing’s retaliatory trade measures as the primary catalyst for this significant move.
Signed on April 15, the executive order marks a pivotal escalation in the long-standing trade standoff between the two global powers. A White House factsheet described the timing as symbolic, referring to the date as “Liberation Day” — the anniversary of the initial wave of U.S. tariffs.
According to the administration, more than 75 countries have approached Washington since the first round of tariffs to explore new trade deals. However, China’s response stood out, as it opted for retaliatory duties rather than negotiations, prompting what the White House called a “firm and strategic economic response.”
Officials argue the tariff hike is aimed not only at addressing economic imbalances but also at protecting national security interests. “China’s retaliatory actions left us no choice,” the factsheet stated, justifying the decision as a response to ongoing unfair trade practices.
Despite the administration’s stance, many economists warn the sweeping tariff increase could drive up consumer prices and disrupt global supply chains. Critics fear the move could isolate the U.S. economically and spark further instability in international markets.
At the time of the announcement, Chinese authorities had not issued a formal response. However, experts suggest Beijing may challenge the new tariffs through the World Trade Organization or implement its own countermeasures.
The order takes immediate effect, covering a wide array of Chinese goods entering the U.S. More detailed information regarding the impacted industries and specific products is expected from the Office of the United States Trade Representative later this week.
