In a bold response to U.S. trade policies, China has announced a significant increase in tariffs on American goods, raising duties to 84% effective April 10. The move comes as a direct countermeasure to the U.S.’s escalating tariffs on Chinese imports, which have now reached a planned 104% following multiple rounds of increases since early 2025.
The Chinese government stated that the new tariffs aim to protect its economic interests amid what it calls “unfair” U.S. trade restrictions. Meanwhile, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent downplayed the impact, calling China’s decision “unfortunate” and urging Beijing to negotiate. Bessent noted that other nations, including Vietnam, Japan, India, and South Korea, are open to trade talks with the U.S., suggesting a broader realignment in global trade dynamics.
The tit-for-tat measures signal a deepening rift between the world’s two largest economies, with both sides showing little willingness to back down. President Trump, who has championed tariffs as a tool to boost U.S. manufacturing, warned that failure to reverse China’s latest tariffs could lead to even higher retaliatory duties.
As the trade war intensifies, global markets brace for potential disruptions, with ripple effects likely to impact consumers and businesses worldwide. For now, the prospect of negotiations remains uncertain, leaving the door open to further escalation.
