In a swift and pointed reaction, China has responded to a recent escalation in trade measures by the United States—specifically a 145 percent tariff imposed by President Donald Trump’s administration on Chinese imports. The decision has further intensified trade tensions between the two global economic powers, signaling little hope for resolution in the near term.
Since President Trump’s return to office in January for a second term, his administration has aggressively pursued a tariff-heavy trade policy. On April 2—dubbed “Liberation Day” by his administration—he unveiled sweeping tariffs targeting numerous countries, with China facing the most severe penalties.
The 145 percent tariff on Chinese goods was implemented immediately after China responded with its own set of retaliatory tariffs. In a post on his social media platform, Trump asserted that China’s long-standing trade practices were no longer acceptable or sustainable for the United States and its allies.
In response, China’s Ministry of Commerce issued a stern warning to Washington, urging the U.S. to reconsider its approach and return to a foundation of mutual respect. However, in a partial reversal on April 11, the Trump administration announced that certain products—including smartphones, computers, and select electronics—would be temporarily exempt from the elevated tariffs.
Despite these concessions, U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick stated in an April 13 interview that these exemptions might be short-lived, and a new tariff targeting semiconductors could be introduced in the near future.
China, in turn, escalated its countermeasures by imposing a 125 percent tariff on American-made goods. It also issued a directive banning domestic airlines from finalizing aircraft purchases from U.S. manufacturer Boeing. In addition to halting existing orders, the directive includes a prohibition on the procurement of Boeing aircraft parts. According to The Telegraph, the Chinese government is currently working with airlines leasing Boeing aircraft to address any financial burdens resulting from this policy shift.
Amid the mounting economic friction, President Trump remains resolute in his stance, emphasizing that these actions are part of a broader strategy to revitalize domestic manufacturing and restore economic dominance. In a statement, he reaffirmed his commitment to policies aimed at job creation, deregulation, and enforcing trade reciprocity with nations like China.
Source: The Telegraph
