President Donald Trump is set to significantly raise tariffs on Chinese imports, with the new levies taking effect on Wednesday, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed on Tuesday. The increase will push the total tariff on all Chinese goods to at least 104%.
The decision comes after Beijing refused to back down from its retaliatory stance, which included imposing 34% tariffs on US goods by noon Tuesday. The Trump administration’s new tariff package will add an additional 50% to the existing 34%, resulting in the substantial increase in costs for Chinese imports.
Leavitt stated, "Countries like China, who have chosen to retaliate and try to double down on their mistreatment of American workers, are making a mistake." She emphasized President Trump’s determination, stating, “President Trump has a spine of steel, and he will not break.” She also noted that while China is eager to strike a deal, they have yet to figure out how to do so.
In 2024, China was the United States' second-largest source of imports, with goods worth $439 billion flowing into the US, while American exports to China totaled $144 billion. The escalating trade war threatens to harm both economies, potentially leading to layoffs and challenges for domestic industries.
Meanwhile, the European Union and other countries are also facing new tariff rates as part of Trump’s broader trade policy. These new tariffs, which were outlined last week, range from 11% to 50%, and most will take effect by midnight.
Despite international discussions and attempts to negotiate lower rates, Leavitt suggested that Trump has no intention of delaying the planned tariffs. “He expects that these tariffs are going to go into effect,” she confirmed after speaking with the president earlier on Tuesday.
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