China Imposes Additional 84% Tariffs on US Goods Amid Escalating Trade War
The trade war between the United States and China took a dramatic turn on after Beijing announced additional tariffs of up to 84% on a wide range of American goods. The move comes after the US government, under President Donald Trump, implemented a sweeping 104% tariff on Chinese imports.
China’s Ministry of Commerce confirmed that the new tariffs would come into effect starting Thursday and would cover hundreds of American products across various sectors. This aggressive response signals a significant escalation in the ongoing trade conflict between the world’s two largest economies.
The newly announced tariffs more than double the previously imposed rate of 34%, reflecting Beijing’s intent to retaliate firmly against what it calls “unilateral and protectionist” trade measures by Washington.
“These measures are necessary to safeguard China’s legitimate rights and interests,” the Chinese Ministry of Commerce said in a statement. “We urge the United States to return to the path of dialogue and mutual respect.”
The tit-for-tat tariff war was triggered after the Trump administration rolled out a “reciprocal tariff” policy earlier this month, targeting dozens of countries it accused of unfair trade practices. The most significant blow was aimed at China, with a 104% tariff slapped on nearly all Chinese goods entering the US.
“The era of being taken advantage of is over,” Trump said earlier this week, claiming the tariffs are intended to correct years of trade imbalance and ensure “fairness for American workers.”
China’s latest move is expected to impact key US export sectors including agriculture, automotive, technology, and energy. Economists warn that the escalating conflict could trigger further disruptions in global supply chains and slow down economic recovery efforts in both nations.
The rising tensions have also rattled global markets. Major Asian indices fell in early trading Thursday, while European markets remained cautious amid concerns over the long-term impact of the trade war on global economic stability.
Trade analysts say both nations are digging in for a prolonged confrontation. “We are witnessing the most serious trade standoff in recent history,” said Dr. Wei Liu, a trade policy expert at the University of Hong Kong. “Neither side appears willing to blink, and the consequences could be severe.”
The World Trade Organization (WTO) has so far refrained from direct intervention, though sources say quiet back-channel diplomacy is underway to de-escalate tensions.
With no immediate signs of negotiation on the horizon, all eyes are now on how Washington responds to Beijing’s countermeasures and whether this trade war could morph into a broader geopolitical conflict.
