Wed Apr 09 18:53:39 UTC 2025: ## Trump Unleashes 125% Tariff on China, Grants 90-Day Reprieve to Other Nations

**Washington D.C.** – In a dramatic escalation of the ongoing trade war, former President Donald Trump announced a 125% tariff on all Chinese imports, effective immediately. This followed China’s announcement of an 84% levy on US goods, a sharp increase from its previous 34% tariff. Trump’s action, announced on his TruthSocial platform, represents a significant intensification of his administration’s tough stance against Beijing.

Simultaneously, however, Trump offered a 90-day reprieve to over 75 other countries, pausing tariffs above the baseline 10% rate. This temporary measure, also effective immediately, follows what the former President described as successful negotiations with these nations, who he claims refrained from retaliatory tariffs at his suggestion.

“At some point, hopefully in the near future, China will realize that the days of ripping off the USA, and other countries, is no longer sustainable or acceptable,” Trump wrote.

**Impact on India:**

India, which recently faced a 26% additional levy from the US, is cautiously monitoring the situation. While acknowledging ongoing bilateral trade negotiations with the US, the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson stated that India is studying the implications of the announced tariffs. The 90-day pause provides India with additional time to finalize its trade agreement with the US and strategize a response to potential future levies.

**Policy Uncertainty:**

The 90-day tariff pause has raised questions about the Trump administration’s long-term trade policy. While some aides suggested the tariffs were intended as a permanent measure, others described them as a negotiating tactic. Trump himself offered a mixed response, suggesting both permanent tariffs and the possibility of future negotiations. However, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent defended the strategy, claiming it successfully maneuvered China into a disadvantageous position.

The announcement sent shockwaves through global markets, prompting significant volatility. The situation remains fluid, with the next 90 days holding critical importance for international trade relations.

Read More