US-China Trade Tensions Escalate Dramatically with Trump-Admin Tariffs and White House Support

Published on 4.13.25

  The US has imposed tariffs of 20% on Chinese imports in addition to those already applied, with some tariffs reaching as high as 145%. This move is part of a broader strategy to address what the Trump administration sees as unfair trade practices by China. The US claims that China's retaliatory measures are "blackmail" and vows to fight back. The US trade deficit reached $918 billion in 2024, largely due to the country's tendency to spend more than it saves. However, economists argue that trade deficits are not necessarily a bad thing for economic growth, citing examples of countries experiencing increased growth despite large trade imbalances. The White House Press Secretary has supported the decision, stating that it is a necessary measure to protect American workers. The US has announced plans to impose additional tariffs of 50% on all Chinese goods, effective April 9, in response to China's refusal to withdraw its 34% increase.

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