China Warns of Retaliation as Trump Imposes Record Tariffs Amid Trade Tensions

In a bold move, the U.S. is set to impose a staggering 34% tariff on imports from China, effective April 9. This increase, part of President Donald Trump’s extensive tariff strategy, adds to the existing 20%, totaling a historic 54%—the highest levied against any nation. The tariffs are described as a significant reorganization of the global economy since World War II, aimed at revitalizing American manufacturing and addressing trade disparities.

China’s Foreign Ministry has firmly opposed these measures, asserting that they violate WTO regulations and disrupt the multilateral trading system. Expert economist Tianchen Xu warns that “no product made in China is safe” under these new tariffs, which will severely impact low-cost manufacturers at a time when domestic demand is already struggling.

Additionally, Trump has closed the “de minimis” trade loophole, which had previously aided the rise of Chinese retailers like Temu and Shein. This shift could compel China to engage in negotiations regarding key issues, such as the U.S. operations of TikTok, a deadline looming this Saturday.

According to Xin Sun, a political economist, these new tariffs render many Chinese products uncompetitive, further complicated by the threat of even higher tariffs discussed during Trump’s 2024 campaign. As tensions rise, experts suggest that China’s engagement strategy with the U.S. may need to shift.