Trump Tariffs LIVE: China Strikes Back with 125% Tariffs on U.S. Imports

In a major intensification of the ongoing trade conflict, China has announced a dramatic hike in tariffs on American imports, raising them to 125%. This measure comes in retaliation to the United States’ recent move to increase tariffs on Chinese products to 145%.

Key Highlights:

Immediate Enforcement:
The newly announced tariffs are set to take effect on April 12, 2025. They will target a wide array of goods imported from the United States into China.

China’s Position:
Chinese officials have made it clear that they do not intend to respond to any further tariff hikes from the U.S. Instead, they plan to ignore additional American duties, signaling a hardening stance.

Exporter Fallout:
Chinese businesses, especially those in trade-heavy regions like Yiwu, are already feeling the strain. With a notable drop in orders from the U.S., many exporters are now considering withdrawing from the American market altogether to avoid financial losses.

Global Economic Impact:
Experts caution that the growing tariff war could severely disrupt the global economy. The slowdown in Chinese demand is already having ripple effects worldwide. For example, Australia has revised its GDP growth forecast for 2025 down to 1.6%, attributing the decline to reduced exports to China and the fallout from trade tensions—amounting to an estimated $6 billion economic loss.

Beyond Tariffs – Strategic Restrictions:

In addition to tariff measures, both nations are deploying broader trade restrictions. China has introduced export controls on strategic metals vital to high-tech industries, including electronics, defense, and renewable energy. Meanwhile, the United States has ramped up scrutiny of Chinese companies, adding several to its export control lists and launching probes into trade agreement compliance.

As of April 11, 2025, there is little indication that either side is willing to de-escalate. China has reiterated its refusal to mirror any further tariff increases from the U.S., and tensions remain high. With both countries entrenched in their positions, the global market braces for continued uncertainty as the situation develops.