The White House has announced new tariffs of up to 245% on Chinese imports, escalating what has become a full-blown US-China trade war. This move comes in response to China’s recent trade actions and is part of a broader effort by the U.S. to counter what it calls “unfair trade practices.”
The latest round of tariffs targets critical high-tech materials and rare earth elements essential for industries such as aerospace, defense, and electronics. Export restrictions have also been tightened in tandem with the tariff hike.
Timeline of the 2025 US-China Tariff War
- January 20 – Donald Trump begins his second term as U.S. President, reigniting a tough stance on China’s trade policies.
- February 1 – Tariffs on Chinese imports are increased by 10%.
- February 4 – China retaliates with new tariffs on U.S. coal, gas, and agricultural machinery.
- March 4 – U.S. imposes another 10% tariff; China responds with increased tariffs on major U.S. exports.
- March 26 – Over 50 Chinese tech firms are blacklisted, limiting China’s access to advanced computing technologies.
- April 2 – Trump raises overall tariffs on Chinese imports to 54%.
- April 3 – Trump declares a “Freedom Day,” reinforcing the new tariff measures.
- April 4 – China suspends agricultural imports from the U.S. and adds American firms to its trade blacklist.
- April 9 – U.S. tariffs on Chinese imports rise to 104%; China counters with 84% tariffs on American goods.
- April 10 – U.S. increases tariffs to 125% and temporarily suspends tariffs on imports from other countries for 90 days.
- April 11 – China announces plans to match U.S. tariff rates, starting April 12.
- April 12 – China imposes 125% tariffs on U.S. products but states it will not respond to further tariff increases due to unsustainable rates.
- April 12 – U.S. exempts smartphones, computers, and other electronic devices from the tariffs.
- April 16 – The White House confirms that all Chinese exports to the U.S. may now face tariffs as high as 245%.
Rising Tensions and Global Economic Risks
The White House has defended these actions, citing national security and the need to counter China’s state subsidies, industrial support, and technology development policies, which it claims undermine free and fair trade.
China has sharply criticized the U.S. move, describing it as the act of a “reckless leader playing a dangerous numbers game,” and warned of its harmful global repercussions.
Economic Fallout Predicted
Economists warn that the rising tariffs could lead to:
- Higher consumer prices in both countries,
- Disruption of global supply chains, and
- A potential slowdown in global economic growth.
Prices for electronics, consumer goods, and raw materials imported from China may surge, putting added pressure on manufacturers and consumers alike.
As the world’s two largest economies remain locked in an increasingly hostile trade standoff, the global community is urging both sides to seek a peaceful and diplomatic resolution. With the economic future of many nations at stake, this trade war poses a serious threat to global stability and long-term prosperity.