The U.S. government is imposing stricter tariffs on Chinese imports after the country missed a key deadline on Tuesday to remove its retaliatory tariffs. This decision follows claims from President Trump that China was eager to reach an agreement.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that a 104% tariff on Chinese goods will take effect on April 9. During a briefing on Tuesday, Leavitt echoed Trump’s view that China is desperate for a deal. “He believes China must come to an agreement with the U.S.,” Leavitt said. “It was a mistake for China to retaliate. When America is hit, the president responds more forcefully—that’s why the 104% tariffs will be enforced tonight at midnight.”
Leavitt also mentioned that Trump would be willing to negotiate if Chinese President Xi Jinping sought a deal. The new tariff was anticipated as part of Trump’s broader strategy of reciprocal tariffs, but the extra 104% was likely added because of China’s refusal to cooperate with the U.S.
On April 4, Trump unveiled a series of tariffs and referred to the day as “Liberation Day.” Reactions were mixed globally. Some countries sought to renegotiate with the U.S., while others, including China, chose to retaliate. China responded by imposing a 34% tariff on U.S. goods and vowed to resist what it called “blackmail.” The U.S. government has criticized China’s non-market practices, accusing the country of dominating key industries and damaging U.S. industries.
At the same time, Chinese manufacturers are reportedly concerned that their profits will decline and are considering moving production to other countries, according to reports.
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