The ongoing trade standoff between the United States and China has intensified, with Washington slapping a hefty 245% tariff on select Chinese imports. The White House attributed the move to China’s retaliatory actions, signaling a sharp escalation in the dispute.
This latest development comes on the heels of President Donald Trump authorizing a probe into the national security risks posed by America’s dependence on foreign-sourced critical minerals—such as cobalt, lithium, nickel, and rare-earth elements—vital to industries ranging from consumer electronics to defense manufacturing.
Speaking on the trade impasse, Trump insisted that Beijing must take the initiative. “The ball is in China’s court. They need to make a deal with us. We don’t need to make a deal with them,” he said, a day after accusing China of backing out of a major aircraft deal with Boeing.
In response to the earlier imposition of a 145% tariff by the US, China reportedly instructed its domestic airlines to halt all new Boeing jet purchases and suspend orders for related equipment from American firms, Bloomberg reported, citing sources familiar with the matter. Beijing is also said to be exploring support measures for airlines already leasing Boeing aircraft.
Trump had previously announced a fresh 125% tariff on Chinese imports, in addition to an existing 20% duty—bringing the total to 145%. That initial tariff was introduced in retaliation for China’s alleged role in the distribution of fentanyl into the US.China has strongly condemned the US actions. In a statement published on its customs website, Chinese authorities accused Washington of violating global trade standards. “The US’s imposition of such extreme tariffs on Chinese goods is a serious breach of international trade rules, economic principles, and logic. It amounts to unilateral bullying and coercion,” the statement read.
The Chinese government, citing domestic and international legal frameworks, announced new countermeasures set to begin on April 12, 2025. Under the updated policy, tariffs on certain US-origin goods will rise from 84% to 125%, making it increasingly difficult for American products to gain market traction in China.
“If the US persists in escalating tariff actions, China will not yield,” Beijing warned. The announcement concludes with a reiteration of China’s broader tariff framework in response to the US measures, as outlined in its earlier directive (Tax Commission Announcement No. 4 of 2025).
Source : https://saharareporters.com/
