Donald Trump reverses plan for 145% China tariffs, introducing a surprising new proposal that signals a shift in economic strategy.
President Trump, weeks after sharply raising tariffs on China, now appears to ease his tough trade stance, surprising both allies and critics alike.
The former 145% rate on most Chinese imports was announced during the early days of Trump’s second term.
According to his recent social media statements, that rate may soon be revised downward.
Tariff policy reversal shocks markets and global observers
Trump took to Truth Social on May 9, writing: “80 percent Tariff on China seems right! Up to Scott B.”
The post signals a major shift from Trump’s earlier stance, which imposed record-high import taxes on Chinese goods in U.S. history.
The post signals a major shift from Trump’s earlier stance, which imposed record-high import taxes on Chinese goods in U.S. history.
Earlier tariff increases triggered Chinese retaliation measures
Following his inauguration, Trump proclaimed April 2 as “Liberation Day,” introducing sweeping tariffs across the board.
Although many nations were affected, China faced the most substantial penalties.
Tariffs increased from 20% to 54%, then to 104%, after Beijing’s retaliatory counter-tariffs and a World Trade Organization complaint.
Despite the mounting pressure, Trump escalated matters further on April 9 by raising tariffs to 145%, with certain categories of Chinese goods hit with rates as high as 245%.
These unprecedented figures sent ripples through global markets and sparked fears of an all-out trade war.
Trump reverses stance on 145% China tariffs as he makes shocking new economic proposal
The recent messages from Trump contrast sharply with his prior tone. In a follow-up post, he urged, “CHINA SHOULD OPEN UP ITS MARKET TO USA — WOULD BE SO GOOD FOR THEM!!! CLOSED MARKETS DON’T WORK ANYMORE!!!”
His bold language suggests openness to negotiation and mutual benefit, marking a shift from previous zero-sum rhetoric.
Sources inside the administration report that top U.S. economic officials, including Treasury chief Scott Bessent and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, are scheduled to meet with a high-level Chinese delegation.
The meeting is set to take place over the coming weekend.
These talks are expected to center on trade terms, tariff rates, and potentially a long-term economic framework between the two superpowers.
No formal commitments yet, but the meeting signals Washington’s reevaluation and potential for flexible negotiations amid rising economic pressures.
Public remarks reflect a softer approach toward Beijing
At the swearing-in ceremony of Paul Atkins as SEC Chairman earlier this week, Trump struck a conciliatory tone when discussing U.S.-China relations.
“We’re doing fine with China,” he said. “We’re going to live together very happily and ideally work together.”
He also hinted that the final tariff figure would be “substantially” lower than 145%, though he declined to offer specifics.
White House defends strategic intent behind tariff plan
Despite the abrupt shifts, the White House insists that its broader trade strategy remains intact.
A recent statement explained that individualized tariffs were introduced on “Liberation Day” as part of Trump’s “America First” policy.
“On Day One, President Trump initiated his America First Trade Policy to make America’s economy great again.
On Liberation Day, President Trump imposed a 10% tariff on all countries and individualized reciprocal higher tariffs on nations with which the U.S. has the largest trade deficits in order to level the playing field and protect America’s national security.
“More than 75 countries have already reached out to discuss new trade deals.
As a result, the individualized higher tariffs are currently paused amid these discussions, except for China, which retaliated.”