Trump Increases Tariffs on China to 145% in Latest Trade War Escalation
The ongoing US-China trade war just reached a new peak.
Former US President Donald Trump has officially raised tariffs on Chinese imports to a massive 145%, according to new clarifications from the White House. The increase surpasses the previously reported 125%, reflecting a dramatic escalation in economic tensions between the two global superpowers.
Why Are US Tariffs on China So High?
Initially, the Trump administration had implemented a series of tariffs on Chinese goods over several years, starting with a 20% base tariff. This was part of a broader effort to combat the import of fentanyl-related products and other concerns about Chinese trade practices.
More recently, the US imposed additional “Liberation Day” tariffs of 34%, aimed at punishing China’s retaliatory trade moves. However, CNBC reported that the White House clarified the 125% figure excluded the original 20% — bringing the grand total to 145%.
A Breakdown of the US-China Tariff Increases:
| Tariff Round | Tariff Percentage | Reason/Context |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Tariff | 20% | Targeting fentanyl imports from China |
| First Trade Tariff | 34% | Liberation Day tariff on Chinese goods |
| US Retaliation | +50% | Response to China’s counter-tariffs |
| Final Total | 145% | Accumulated after multiple rounds of increases |
China Responds with Its Own Tariffs
China has not remained silent. The Chinese government imposed its own 34% tariffs in response, which led to the US further increasing its rates. This tit-for-tat escalation has intensified over recent weeks, making global markets uneasy.
What Does This Mean for US Consumers?
For American businesses and consumers, the impact could be significant. Any goods imported from China will now carry an additional 145% cost due to these tariffs — often making them more expensive than their actual value.
Industries that rely heavily on Chinese manufacturing — including electronics, clothing, furniture, and household goods — will likely pass these increased costs onto US consumers.
US-China Trade Relations: What’s Next?
While the US has implemented a temporary 90-day pause on tariffs for over 75 countries, China remains excluded from this reprieve. The White House continues to defend its stance, citing China’s failure to prevent the export of precursor chemicals linked to fentanyl production and money laundering activities.
Despite this aggressive strategy, experts warn that higher tariffs may encourage American businesses to seek alternative suppliers outside of China, potentially shifting global trade patterns.
The Bigger Picture
China remains one of the United States’ top trading partners, with around $438.9 billion in goods sold to the US in the past year alone. However, this new 145% tariff barrier could drastically change how and where American companies source their products.
With tensions showing no sign of slowing, businesses and consumers alike should brace for higher prices and ongoing uncertainty in the global market.
