Trump Raises Tariffs To 245% on Chinese Imports Amid Trade War

The United States has announced sweeping tariffs of up to 245% on Chinese imports, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing trade war between the world’s two largest economies.

The decision, detailed in a White House fact sheet released on April 15, 2025, comes as a direct response to China’s recent export restrictions and retaliatory tariffs.

This move underscores President Donald Trump’s “America First Trade Policy,” which the administration claims is justified on national security grounds due to China’s restrictions on critical materials like gallium, germanium, and rare earth metals — essential for military, aerospace, and semiconductor industries.

Background of the Tariff Escalation

The trade conflict intensified following President Trump’s “Liberation Day” announcement, where he imposed a 10% baseline tariff on countries with high taxes on U.S. goods.

While negotiations with over 75 countries led to a temporary pause on these tariffs, China’s retaliatory measures — such as suspending exports of six heavy rare earth metals and imposing 125% levies on U.S. goods — prompted the U.S. to single out China with the unprecedented 245% tariff.

The White House stated, “China now faces up to a 245% tariff on imports to the United States as a result of its retaliatory actions.”

China’s Response: A Call for Dialogue

China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Lin Jian, addressed the tariffs during a press briefing on April 16, 2025, urging the U.S. to provide specific tax rate figures and accusing Washington of initiating the tariff war.

China has taken necessary countermeasures to safeguard its legitimate rights and interests, which is completely reasonable and legal according to the spokesperson.

He emphasized that tariff wars benefit no one and reiterated China’s willingness to negotiate, provided the U.S. abandons “extreme pressure” and engages in dialogue based on equality, respect, and mutual benefit.

Economic Implications

The tariffs are poised to disrupt global supply chains, particularly in high-tech industries reliant on Chinese materials.

Economists warn that the escalation could lead to higher consumer prices in the U.S. and strain China’s export-driven economy.

Heron Lim from Moody’s Analytics told AFP:

Meanwhile, China reported a robust 5.4% economic growth in the first quarter, driven by exporters rushing goods before the tariffs took effect.

Global Reactions and Future Outlook

The U.S. has offered temporary exemptions for certain tech products, such as smartphones and laptops, to mitigate domestic economic impacts.

However, the broader implications for global trade remain uncertain. Countries like Japan and South Korea are engaging in diplomatic efforts to avoid similar tariff impositions, with Japan’s envoy expressing optimism for “win-win” outcomes.

As tensions mount, the White House has signaled that the ball is in China’s court, with Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt reading a statement from Trump: “China needs to make a deal with us. We don’t have to make a deal with them.”