Trump tariffs: US leader says no one ‘off the hook’ as he suggests new Chinese import taxes
US President Donald Trump has intensified his hardline trade policies by asserting that no country, especially China, will be exempt from tariffs. This follows a series of escalating trade measures, including a steep 145% tariff on Chinese imports, which has significantly strained US-China trade relations. Despite earlier suggestions of exemptions for certain categories like electronics, Trump clarified that these products remain subject to tariffs, albeit under a different classification. Electronics such as smartphones and laptops are taxed at a 20% rate, while semiconductors could face additional tariffs in the coming months.
Trump’s rhetoric emphasizes addressing what he describes as “unfair trade balances” and “non-monetary tariff barriers.” He has also linked the tariffs to national security concerns, particularly regarding the electronics supply chain. Pharmaceutical products, however, have been excluded from these measures.
The tit-for-tat actions have led China to impose retaliatory tariffs of up to 125% on US goods. While Beijing initially viewed some tariff pauses as a positive step, Trump’s recent statements indicate no intention to ease pressure on China. This has heightened tensions between the two economic superpowers and created volatility in global markets.
Economists warn that these aggressive tariff policies could slow US economic growth and increase inflation, with consumer sentiment already reflecting concerns about rising prices. Businesses have also expressed frustration over the unpredictability of the administration’s trade strategies.
