China Hits Back: To Hike Tariffs on US Goods to 125% Starting April 12
In a bold retaliatory move, China announced it will raise tariffs on a range of U.S. imports to as high as 125%, effective April 12, escalating trade tensions between the world’s two largest economies. This decision comes in response to recent tariff measures imposed by Washington targeting Chinese technology and manufacturing sectors.
The Chinese Ministry of Commerce released a statement citing the need to “safeguard national economic interests and respond proportionately” to what it described as “unilateral and protectionist actions” by the United States. The new tariff hike will impact a wide range of U.S. goods, including agricultural products, automobiles, electronics, and certain consumer goods.
Analysts warn that this sharp increase could significantly disrupt supply chains and drive up costs for both consumers and businesses. U.S. exporters, already grappling with reduced demand and global market volatility, now face even steeper challenges accessing the Chinese market.
This latest move underscores the ongoing tit-for-tat trade battle that has strained relations between Beijing and Washington in recent years. Though previous negotiations aimed at easing trade frictions have made intermittent progress, this sharp tariff escalation signals a hardening of positions on both sides.
The U.S. administration has yet to respond officially, but early indications suggest a possible review of current trade policies and further countermeasures. Investors and multinational companies are closely monitoring the situation, fearing a broader economic fallout if tensions continue to rise unchecked.
As global markets react to the announcement, the move is expected to further shake investor confidence and could have ripple effects across international trade networks. With the April 12 implementation looming, all eyes are now on Washington’s next step in this high-stakes economic standoff.
