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Trump threatens to impose 50% more tariffs on China starting on April 9.

Richa Pandey
07 Apr, 2025

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has once again stirred global economic concerns by threatening to impose **50% additional tariffs on Chinese goods** if he wins the 2024 election. In a campaign speech on April 7, Trump declared that these tariffs—potentially taking effect as early as **April 9, 2025**—would be a key tool to counter China’s "unfair trade practices" and protect American industries.

A Return to Aggressive Trade Policies?**

Trump’s latest remarks signal a potential return to the **hardline trade policies** that defined his first term (2017-2021), when he launched a **trade war** with China by imposing tariffs on over **$360 billion worth of Chinese imports**. The new proposal, however, goes even further—raising existing tariffs from an average of **7.5-25% to as high as 60%** on some goods.

Key sectors likely to be impacted include:

- **Electric vehicles (EVs) and auto parts**

- **Steel and aluminum**

- **Semiconductors and electronics**

- **Consumer goods like apparel and electronics**

*Justification: Protecting U.S. Jobs and Industries**

Trump framed the move as necessary to **revive American manufacturing**, accusing China of **currency manipulation, intellectual property theft, and dumping cheap goods** into U.S. markets.

*"China has been ripping us off for decades,"* he said. *"When I’m back in the White House, they’ll pay—big league."*

His supporters argue that previous tariffs **boosted U.S. factory jobs** and reduced reliance on Chinese imports. However, critics warn that **consumers could face higher prices**, as companies may pass on costs.

China’s Likely Response**

Beijing has historically retaliated with **counter-tariffs** on U.S. agricultural and tech products. If Trump follows through, China could:

- **Increase tariffs on American soybeans, aircraft, and machinery**

- **Restrict rare earth mineral exports** (critical for U.S. tech and defense)

- **Accelerate decoupling by favoring non-U.S. suppliers**

Chinese state media has already labeled Trump’s threat as **"economic bullying"** and warned of **"serious consequences"** for global trade.

Global Economic Implications**

A renewed U.S.-China trade war could:

- **Disrupt global supply chains**, worsening inflation

- **Slow economic growth** in both nations

- **Force other countries (EU, India, Southeast Asia) to pick sides**

The **IMF and World Bank** have previously warned that escalating tariffs could shave **0.5-1% off global GDP**.

Political Reactions in the U.S.**

- **Biden’s camp** criticized Trump’s plan, arguing it would **hurt American consumers** already struggling with inflation.

- **Republican hawks** applauded the tough stance, calling it necessary to **counter China’s rise**.

- **Business groups** are divided—some manufacturers support tariffs, while retailers and farmers fear losing access to China’s market.

What Happens Next?**

If Trump wins in November, his administration could **quickly implement** the new tariffs via executive action. However, legal challenges and **WTO disputes** may follow.

For now, markets remain cautious—**U.S. stocks dipped** after Trump’s comments, and **Chinese yuan weakened** slightly. Investors fear a return to **economic uncertainty** reminiscent of the 2018-2020 trade war.

**Conclusion**

Trump’s threat of **50% tariffs on China** marks a dramatic escalation in trade tensions. While it energizes his nationalist base, the move risks **stagflation, supply chain chaos, and geopolitical friction**. As the 2024 election heats up, the world braces for another potential **U.S.-China economic showdown**.