US Tariffs on Chinese Imports Surge to 145% Amid Escalating Trade Tensions
The United States has sharply raised tariffs on most Chinese imports, bringing the total rate to 145%, according to an announcement from Washington.
The latest increase follows a new 125% tariff unveiled by President Donald Trump on Wednesday. The White House later clarified that the new levy is being applied in addition to an existing 20% tariff, which had previously been imposed in response to China’s alleged role in the production and supply of fentanyl entering the U.S.
In a detailed post on his proprietary social media platform, Trump defended the decision as a response to what he described as China’s ongoing disregard for international market standards. He said the action was necessary to confront Beijing’s “lack of respect” for global commerce and to end practices he characterized as exploitative.
The former president claimed that more than 75 countries have approached the U.S. to begin trade talks since the broader rollout of what he calls “reciprocal tariffs.” Those measures were temporarily paused for a 90-day period following a partial policy reversal, but Trump emphasized that the world is starting to “realize the era of taking advantage of the United States is over.”
China Responds with Countertariffs
China, in turn, has imposed its own retaliatory tariffs on U.S. imports, setting the rate at 84%, with the new measures taking effect on Thursday. Beijing has refused to engage in direct negotiations with Washington, accusing the U.S. of acting like a global bully.
At a daily briefing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian suggested that the U.S. campaign would ultimately fail, stating, “A just cause receives support from many. The U.S. cannot win the support of the people and will end in failure.”
Beijing Shifts Focus to Europe
Amid heightened tensions with Washington, China appears to be strengthening ties with Europe. Premier Li Qiang held a phone conversation with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, which state media described as sending “a positive message to the outside world.” Beijing says it is ready to work closely with the European Union on trade, investment, and industrial cooperation.
This was followed by a virtual meeting between Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao and EU Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security Maroš Šefčović, where both sides discussed concerns over the U.S. tariff regime.
Mixed Global Reactions
While China is seeking alliances in response to the U.S. pressure, not all countries are aligning with Beijing. India has reportedly declined a Chinese proposal for trade cooperation. Meanwhile, Russia, despite its close ties to China, has not been included in Trump’s tariff measures and has stayed largely on the sidelines.
Taiwan, however, has been hit with a 32% tariff, despite being one of the U.S.’s closest trading partners and a critical supplier of semiconductors. Taiwanese Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung confirmed that discussions with American officials are underway to address the issue.
Trump Defends Strategy
Speaking during a cabinet meeting, Trump maintained that the U.S. economy is strong and that the tariff policy will usher in what he has described as “America’s golden age.” He reiterated that the goal is not to isolate the country, but to compel fairer treatment in international trade.
“We’re very, very happy with the way the country’s running. We’re trying to get the world to treat us fairly,” Trump said.
The aggressive tariff move has sent ripples through global markets, with analysts watching closely to see how countries, especially U.S. allies, will respond as the standoff between Washington and Beijing continues to deepen.
