Donald Trump has made a surprising pivot on China tariffs, suggesting a new rate after previously pushing them to a staggering 145 percent.
Shortly after being sworn in for his second term, Trump dubbed April 2 as “America’s Liberation Day.”
That day, he rolled out an aggressive wave of import taxes targeting countries worldwide — with China bearing the heaviest impact.
Initially, goods from China were subject to a 20 percent tariff, which was quickly bumped up by another 34 percent.
Predictably, Beijing pushed back, launching retaliatory tariffs and filing a case at the World Trade Organization. This prompted Trump to jack up tariffs on Chinese goods to 104 percent.
Then, on April 9, Trump hiked most China tariffs again — this time to 145 percent, with some specific items facing a punishing 245 percent levy.
Now, it seems the President may be softening his stance.
In a post on Truth Social earlier today (May 9), Trump stated: “80 percent Tariff on China seems right! Up to Scott B.”
In a follow-up, he added: “CHINA SHOULD OPEN UP ITS MARKET TO USA — WOULD BE SO GOOD FOR THEM!!! CLOSED MARKETS DON’T WORK ANYMORE!!!”
While it remains uncertain whether Trump intends to officially implement this lower rate, high-level discussions are already in motion. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer are reportedly preparing to meet with senior Chinese officials this weekend.
Trump’s online comments come just days after he attended the swearing-in ceremony of Paul Atkins as the new head of the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Speaking at the event, Trump remarked: “We’re in a good place with China. We’ll get along just fine — hopefully even cooperate.”
He also hinted that the final tariff percentage on Chinese imports would be “significantly reduced,” though he didn’t specify an exact figure.
“It won’t be that high,” he said. “Not going to be that high.”
The White House recently issued a statement regarding the ongoing tariff policy, asserting that the measures are designed to align long-term trade goals with national interests.
The statement noted:
“On Day One, President Trump implemented his America First Trade Policy, aimed at revitalizing the U.S. economy. On Liberation Day, he imposed a general 10% tariff on all countries, and set customized higher rates for nations with the largest trade imbalances to safeguard American security.”
It continued:
“Over 75 countries have already expressed interest in renegotiating trade agreements. As talks continue, these enhanced tariffs have been put on hold — except in China’s case, due to its retaliation.”
