- US to impose 155 percent tariffs on Chinese imports starting November 1.
- Trump cites unbalanced trade and national security as reasons for tariffs.
- Action targets China’s support of Russian oil imports amid Ukraine conflict.
US President Donald Trump announced that Washington would proceed with its plan to implement a 155 percent tariff on Chinese imports starting November 1, even though he expressed a desire to keep friendly relations with Beijing.
In answer to a question from ANI regarding whether tariffs on China would be considered, given that it remains Russia's largest oil importer, the US President stated, "Right now, as of November 1st, China will have about 155 percent tariffs put on it. I don't think it's sustainable for them."
Trump expressed that although he personally desires to keep ties with China, years of unbalanced economic interactions have forced the US to adopt a strong stance. The US President mentioned that his previous trade agreements with the European Union, Japan, and South Korea were based on tariffs, which he views as a means of ensuring "national security."
Trump's announcement highlights the escalating "secondary tariff" approach that Washington is implementing against nations seen as indirectly supporting Russia's war in Ukraine via their energy trade.
Also Read: Trump Imposes 100% Tariff on China, Eyes Tech Export Curbs
While earlier actions focused on India, which faced a 50 percent tariff on Russian oil imports, this action indicates a wider escalation aimed at China, the largest importer of Russian crude globally. Previously, Trump stated in a Truth Social post that there would be a further 100 percent tariff on Chinese products "over and above any tariff that they are currently paying", starting November 1.
"Based on the fact that China has taken this unprecedented position, and speaking only for the USA, and not other Nations who were similarly threatened, starting November 1, 2025 (or sooner, depending on any further actions or changes taken by China), the United States of America will impose a Tariff of 100% on China, over and above any Tariff that they are currently paying. Also on November 1, we will impose Export Controls on any and all critical software," his post read.