Wed Jan 22 04:21:43 UTC 2025: ## Trump Threatens 10% Tariff on China Over Fentanyl
**Washington, D.C. – January 22, 2025** – Former U.S. President Donald Trump announced plans to impose a 10% tariff on China, effective February 1st, citing the flow of fentanyl to Mexico and Canada. Speaking at a White House press conference alongside tech executives Larry Ellison, Masayoshi Son, and Sam Altman, Trump stated that his administration is actively pursuing the tariff. He also mentioned considering a 25% tariff for both Mexico and China.
Trump claimed that during a recent conversation with Chinese President Xi Jinping, he urged China to take stronger action against fentanyl trafficking, suggesting a death penalty for offenders. He asserted that a previous agreement with Xi Jinping to implement such penalties was thwarted by the 2024 election, which he alleges was rigged. Trump further criticized President Biden for failing to follow through on the alleged agreement.
The former president’s comments come amidst ongoing concerns about the opioid crisis in North America. While Trump did not elaborate on the specifics of the proposed tariff, the announcement is likely to further strain already tense US-China relations. He also mentioned China’s lack of involvement in resolving the war in Ukraine, urging greater Chinese intervention.
First Piper 