Wed Apr 09 12:07:20 UTC 2025: ## China Retaliates Against Trump’s Tariffs with 84% Levy on US Goods
**Beijing, China** – In a dramatic escalation of the ongoing trade war, China announced a staggering 84% tariff on all US goods, effective April 10th. This represents a significant increase from the 34% tariff imposed last week and comes as a direct response to US President Donald Trump’s imposition of a 104% tariff on Chinese goods.
The Chinese Ministry of Finance cited President Trump’s “arrogant and bullying behavior” as justification for the new tariffs. This latest move follows a rapid series of escalating tariff actions. Last week, China initially responded to Trump’s “Liberation Day” tariffs with a 34% levy on US goods, alongside export controls on rare earth minerals. Trump countered by adding a 50% tariff, claiming negotiations had ended. Prior to this, the US had a 10% tariff on Chinese goods.
President Trump, while imposing the tariffs, suggested on Truth Social that China desires a trade deal but hasn’t initiated contact. However, China’s decision to raise tariffs to 84% indicates a firm stance against further negotiations at this time. The Chinese government has not publicly indicated its willingness to engage in further talks.
This tit-for-tat escalation threatens to bring trade between the world’s two largest economies to a standstill. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warned that this escalation is ultimately detrimental to China. In 2024, the US exported $143.5 billion in goods to China, while importing $438.9 billion.
Global markets reacted negatively to the news, with Wednesday seeing a slump following Trump’s latest tariff announcements. The ongoing trade conflict is already considered the largest disruption to global trade since the 1930s, impacting numerous economies worldwide.
First Piper 