Trump Hikes Tariffs on China to 94% Amid Escalating Trade War

In a dramatic escalation of the ongoing US-China trade conflict, former President Donald Trump has announced an additional 50 per cent tariff on all Chinese imports, less than 48 hours after Beijing retaliated with a 34 per cent tariff on American goods. This move by Beijing came in response to Trump’s earlier announcement of a reciprocal 34 per cent tariff on China. The latest hike now brings the total US tariff burden on Chinese products to a record-breaking 84 per cent, with further consequences looming.

The announcement, delivered from Trump's campaign headquarters, marks a significant intensification of tensions between the world’s two largest economies. The tariffs come on top of an existing 10 per cent global tariff that the White House has applied to all trading partners, meaning that China now faces a cumulative tariff rate of 94 per cent on its exports to the United States.

“China’s unfair trade practices have gone unchecked for far too long,” Trump said during the announcement. “This administration is standing up for American workers and making it clear that we will no longer tolerate economic aggression from Beijing.”

The move follows a rapid-fire exchange of trade penalties over the past four days, beginning with Trump’s initial 34 per cent tariff on Chinese imports. In response, the Chinese government imposed its own 34 per cent levy on US goods. The back-and-forth culminated in Trump's declaration of an even more severe 50 per cent tariff, calling it a necessary and firm step to protect American industry and sovereignty.

In what appeared to be an ultimatum to Beijing, Trump has given Chinese President Xi Jinping a 24-hour window to reverse China’s retaliatory tariff decision. Should China fail to comply, Trump confirmed that the full 94 per cent tariff would be imposed across all Chinese exports entering the United States.

“This is not a bluff,” Trump emphasized. “We are prepared to follow through, and we will not hesitate. Either they withdraw their tariffs or the full weight of American tariffs will apply.”

The Chinese government has yet to respond officially to Trump’s latest demand. Analysts expect a strong rebuttal from Beijing, which has consistently maintained that its trade policies are fair and proportionate. Some have warned that such an escalation could severely disrupt global markets, stoke inflation, and damage key industries in both nations.

Economists are already sounding alarms over the potential fallout. A 94 per cent tariff would significantly raise costs for US importers and consumers, many of whom rely heavily on goods manufactured in China. Tech firms, retailers, and manufacturers could be among the hardest hit, as they scramble to either absorb the costs or pass them on to consumers.

Trade experts say the aggressive stance signals a return to Trump’s hallmark “America First” doctrine, where unilateral tariffs are used as leverage in international negotiations. While this has earned praise from some corners of Trump’s support base, it has also drawn criticism from business leaders and global trade partners who fear the ripple effects of prolonged economic conflict.

As the clock ticks down on Trump's 24-hour ultimatum, all eyes are on Beijing’s next move. Whether China will de-escalate or choose to stand its ground remains to be seen. What is certain, however, is that the trade war between the United States and China has entered an unprecedented phase, with the global economy bracing for the impact.