President Donald Trump is set to impose an additional 84% tariff on all Chinese imports starting Wednesday, raising the total tariff rate to at least 104%, according to White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt.
Originally, a 34% increase was planned as part of Trump’s “reciprocal” tariffs initiative. However, an additional 50% was added after Beijing failed to withdraw its retaliatory plan to impose 34% tariffs on U.S. goods by Tuesday noon.
“Countries like China, who have chosen to retaliate and double down on their mistreatment of American workers, are making a mistake,” Leavitt stated. “President Trump has a spine of steel, and he will not break.”
She further noted that while China is eager to make a deal, “they just don’t know how to do it.” Leavitt declined to reveal any terms under which Trump might consider reducing the tariffs.
China was the U.S.’s second-largest source of imports last year, sending $439 billion worth of goods, compared to $144 billion in U.S. exports to China. Analysts warn that the escalating tariffs may lead to job losses and strain domestic industries.
In addition to China, dozens of countries including members of the European Union face a midnight deadline for new tariffs ranging from 11% to 50%. Despite diplomatic efforts to ease the rates, Leavitt confirmed that Trump is firmly committed to implementing the new measures.
