In the latest US China tariff news 2025, President Donald Trump has escalated trade tensions by signing a new executive order that raises tariffs on Chinese imports by an additional 50%. Effective April 9, the move increases total duties on Chinese goods to a record 104%, marking one of the most aggressive trade actions of his presidency.
Signed on Tuesday evening, the Trump executive order tariffs 2025 update boosts reciprocal tariffs from 34% to a staggering 84%. The new rate took effect at 00:01 ET (04:01 GMT) on April 9. When combined with existing tariffs including a 20% hike from March the China import tax increase from the USA now totals a massive 104%.
This action follows a stern warning from Trump just a day earlier, threatening additional tariffs if Beijing didn’t revoke its newly imposed 34% China retaliatory tariffs on American goods. So far, China has shown no signs of backing down, with officials pledging to “fight to the end.”
Another major change in this latest trade war update for April 2025 is the inclusion of De Minimis goods in the new policy. Previously exempt due to their low value, these items from China and Hong Kong are now subject to import duties under the revised trade terms.
Trump’s administration has also announced similar reciprocal tariff plans targeting other key global economies. The U.S. president argues that such measures are necessary to correct unfair trading practices and to boost domestic manufacturing and industrial production.
While White House officials have indicated ongoing trade discussions with over 50 countries, no immediate negotiations with China appear to be on the horizon. Instead, Trump seems focused on pushing through his aggressive economic agenda without compromise.
The financial world has taken notice. Markets have seen increased volatility, as companies brace for potential disruptions linked to these escalating tariffs. Investors remain cautious amid fears that this conflict could tip into a full-scale global trade war.
