BEIJING, April 4 — China will impose an additional 34% tariff on all products imported from the United States beginning April 10, the Customs Tariff Commission of the State Council announced on Friday, according to Xinhua.
The announcement follows the United States’ decision to impose “reciprocal tariffs” on Chinese exports to the U.S.—a move that the commission described as non-compliant with international trade rules, seriously undermining China’s legitimate rights and interests, and constituting a typical example of unilateral bullying.
According to the statement, the U.S. action not only harms its own national interests but also disrupts global economic development and the stability of industrial and supply chains.
China has urged the U.S. to immediately withdraw its unilateral tariff measures and resolve trade disputes through negotiations based on equality, mutual respect, and shared benefit, the commission stated.
The commission also confirmed that existing policies related to bonded trade, as well as tax reduction and exemption schemes, will remain in effect. However, the newly announced additional duties will not be reduced or waived under these policies.
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SUMMARY
China has announced that it will impose an additional 34% tariff on all U.S. imports, effective April 10, 2025. This move is a direct response to President Donald Trump’s recent implementation of a 34% tariff on Chinese goods, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing trade tensions between the two nations.
Background of the Trade Dispute:
- U.S. Tariffs: On April 2, 2025, President Trump announced a 34% tariff on Chinese imports, citing unfair trade practices and aiming to reduce the trade deficit with China.
- China’s Retaliation: In response, China’s Ministry of Finance declared on April 4, 2025, that it would impose a matching 34% tariff on all U.S. goods starting April 10. Additionally, China plans to implement export restrictions on rare earth materials, which are crucial for various high-tech industries.
Implications of the Tariffs:
- Economic Impact: The mutual imposition of tariffs is expected to disrupt global supply chains, increase costs for businesses and consumers, and potentially slow economic growth in both countries. Financial markets have already reacted negatively, with significant declines observed in major stock indices.
- Global Recession Concerns: Analysts have raised concerns that the escalating trade war could lead to a global recession. JPMorgan, for instance, has increased the probability of a U.S. recession to 60%, citing the potential economic fallout from the tariffs.
- Diplomatic Relations: The tit-for-tat tariffs have further strained diplomatic relations between the U.S. and China, complicating efforts to reach a negotiated settlement.
