China escalated the ongoing trade war with the United States by announcing a sharp increase in tariffs on U.S. goods, raising the rate from 34% to 84%. This move, effective Thursday, April 10, 2025, comes in direct retaliation to President Donald Trump’s decision to impose an additional 50% tariff on Chinese imports, bringing total U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods to 104%.
The Chinese Ministry of Finance justified the new tariffs as a response to what it called the “repeated mistakes” of the U.S., accusing Washington of undermining China’s legitimate rights and global trade norms.
In addition to the tariff hike, China added 12 U.S. firms to its export control list and labelled six more companies as “untrustworthy entities,” targeting sectors like aeronautics, radar systems, and military equipment. These measures aim to restrict the exchange of dual-use civilian and military technologies.
President Trump dismissed China’s actions, reiterating that Beijing “desperately” wants a deal but has yet to approach negotiations. Meanwhile, China vowed to “fight to the bitter end,” asserting its readiness to counter any further economic restrictions imposed by the U.S.
The escalating trade war has raised concerns about global economic stability, with experts warning of potential inflationary pressures and disruptions in supply chains. Both nations remain locked in a high-stakes standoff, with no immediate resolution in sight.