Beijing has strongly criticized Washington’s latest tariff imposition and demanded an immediate reversal, warning that it will take retaliatory action to defend its economic interests.
China’s Ministry of Commerce issued a statement condemning the U.S. decision, arguing that it undermines long-standing trade agreements and ignores the economic advantages the U.S. has gained from global commerce.
“China is resolutely opposed to this and will introduce countermeasures to safeguard its rights,” the statement read.
Trump announced that Chinese imports will now be subjected to a 34% tariff, in addition to the 20% levy imposed earlier in the year, pushing the total new charges to 54%—just shy of the 60% rate he had previously suggested.
The updated tariffs will see Chinese exporters, along with other global suppliers, facing a 10% baseline charge as part of the broader 34% tariff, which takes effect Saturday.
The full range of higher tariffs is set to be enforced from April 9.
Additionally, Trump has signed an executive order eliminating the “de minimis” exemption, which had allowed duty-free entry for low-cost shipments from China and Hong Kong.