Trump Threatens Additional 50% Tariffs on China, Intensifying Trade War

US President Donald Trump has threatened to introduce a very heavy 50% tariff on Chinese imports unless Beijing retracts its retaliatory measures by Tuesday, April 8, 2025. In a social media post on Monday, Trump said that if China doesn’t comply, the new tariffs will take effect on April 9, escalating a trade conflict that has already unsettled global markets. This ultimatum has come right after China’s recent announcement of counteractions, which include a 34% tariff on US products and export controls on rare earth minerals, scheduled to begin on April 10.

China’s recent actions come as a response to Trump’s announcement of a 34% tariff increase on Chinese products starting Wednesday, which adds to the already imposed 20% duties tied to the fentanyl crisis. This means that the total tariff on certain Chinese goods could reach 54% this year. Trump has also accused China of engaging in “illegal subsidization” and unfair trade practices, saying that negotiations with Beijing are finished and that the US will begin discussions with other countries for trade agreements.

Analysts are left wondering how the proposed 50% increase works with the existing tariffs. China's control over rare earth materials, which is key for electronics and defense shows that China has made a strategic retaliation, while US industries prepare for rising costs and possible supply chain issues.