White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced on Tuesday that President Donald Trump will sharply increase tariffs on Chinese imports to at least 104%, effective Wednesday, April 9, 2025. The move escalated an ongoing trade war after China imposed 34% tariffs on US goods earlier that day.
The new tariff package piles an additional 50% onto the existing 34% rate, driving up costs for Chinese products entering the US. Leavitt defended the decision, stating, “Countries like China, who retaliate and mistreat American workers, are making a mistake.” She praised Trump’s resolve, adding, “President Trump has a spine of steel, and he will not break.” Despite China’s interest in a deal, she noted they’ve yet to find a workable solution.
JUST IN: Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirms Trump is *not* considering a tariff delay, moments after he slapped a 104% tariff on China, effective today.
Leavitt says Trump is putting the "world on notice."
"He's not considering an extension or a delay. I spoke to him… pic.twitter.com/od9RfOcYy2
— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) April 8, 2025In 2024, China ranked as the US’s second-largest import source, sending $439 billion in goods while importing $144 billion from the US. This tariff hike threatens both economies, potentially sparking layoffs and straining industries. The broader policy also hits the European Union and other nations with new rates of 11% to 50%, effective by midnight Wednesday, as outlined last week.
Read: Trump Defends Sweeping Tariffs, Warns of Pain Before Prosperity
Beijing’s retaliation followed Trump’s refusal to back off his trade agenda, prompting China to label the measures “economic bullying.” Despite international pleas for negotiation, Leavitt signalled no delay after speaking with Trump on Tuesday. “He expects these tariffs to go into effect,” she confirmed, underscoring his firm commitment.
Donald Trump just placed an additional 50% tariff on China, raising the overall tariff rate to 104%. This is nuts. Trump is going to bankrupt a lot of Americans who send their products abroad.
Trump is hurting America.
— Harry Sisson (@harryjsisson) April 8, 2025Trump’s decisive action heightens global trade tensions, likely causing ripple effects for consumers and businesses worldwide. As the deadline approaches, all attention turns to how markets and leaders will respond.
