posted 9th April 2025
Breaking News: Trump Slaps 125% Tariff on Chinese Imports, Pauses Tariffs for All Other Countries
Washington, DC – Former US President Donald J. Trump has announced a sweeping 125% tariff increase on all Chinese imports to the United States, effective immediately, while simultaneously pausing tariffs on all other countries for 90 days. The bold move, revealed in a social media statement, escalates trade tensions with Beijing and signals a significant shift in US trade policy.
Citing China’s “lack of respect” for global markets, Trump accused the nation of exploiting the US and other countries through unfair trade practices. “The days of ripping off the U.S.A., and other Countries, is no longer sustainable or acceptable,” he declared. To address these concerns, he has called on representatives from over 75 nations, alongside officials from the US Departments of Commerce and Treasury and the US Trade Representative (USTR), to negotiate solutions on issues including trade barriers, tariffs, currency manipulation, and non-monetary tariffs.
In a surprising twist, Trump has authorised a 90-day “pause” on tariffs for all countries except China, urging them to refrain from retaliatory measures against the US during this period. He also announced a temporary reduction in reciprocal tariffs to 10% for these nations, effective immediately, in an apparent effort to maintain stability with other trading partners while focusing pressure on China.
The tariff hike on Chinese goods is expected to disrupt global supply chains, potentially driving up consumer prices and intensifying inflationary pressures. Economists warn that the scale of the tariff could provoke a strong response from Beijing, with possible retaliatory actions targeting US exports such as agricultural products and technology. China’s foreign ministry has yet to comment but has previously labelled similar proposals as “counterproductive” and vowed to safeguard its economic interests.
The decision to pause tariffs for other countries has been met with cautious relief by some trading partners, though uncertainty remains. Global markets have already shown volatility, with Asian and European indices fluctuating in early trading. Business leaders and policymakers are now bracing for the broader implications of this high-stakes trade strategy.
Trump concluded his statement by thanking the public and stakeholders for their attention, emphasising the need for urgent action. As the world awaits China’s response and the outcome of proposed negotiations, the international community is left grappling with the potential fallout of this seismic policy shift.
