Donald Trump has ramped up the US-China trade war with an executive order imposing tariffs of up to **245%** on Chinese goods. The move comes after China raised its own tariffs on the US from **84% to 125%**. A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson gave a short response when asked about the new tariffs: *”You can ask the US side for the specific tax rate figures.”*
Trump’s executive order includes an investigation into the *”national security risks posed by US reliance on imported processed critical minerals and their derivative products.”* According to the White House: *“This Executive Order builds on previous actions… to ensure U.S. trade policy serves the nation’s long-term interests.”*
The order also closes loopholes to restore a **25% tariff on steel and aluminum**, and it introduces new measures to combat foreign policies that target American companies, including digital service taxes.
Trump’s *“Fair and Reciprocal Plan”* aims to *“restore fairness in U.S. trade relationships”* and push for domestic production. However, China’s retaliation has made trade between the two nations increasingly difficult, leaving businesses in both countries struggling.As the trade conflict escalates, American consumers may bear the cost while Trump bets on economic gains through pressure and negotiation.