Trump Plans to Impose 10% Tariff on China

President Donald Trump has announced plans to impose a 10% tariff on Chinese imports by 1 February, citing concerns over China’s alleged role in the flow of fentanyl to Mexico and Canada.

Previously, Trump had threatened a 25% tariff on Mexico and Canada, accusing them of facilitating illegal migration and drug trafficking into the United States.

He said:

“China is an abuser, but the European Union is very, very bad to us.”

During a press conference in Washington on Tuesday, he also vowed to introduce tariffs on the European Union, arguing that the bloc’s trade policies are unfair to the US.

“They’re going to be in for tariffs,” Trump stated, emphasizing that it is the only way to achieve “fairness” in trade.

Following his inauguration on Monday, federal agencies were directed to reassess existing trade agreements to identify and address any unfair practices by US trading partners.

Trump’s Tough Tariff Tactics Against the Fentanyl Threat

White House trade adviser Peter Navarro clarified on Tuesday that President Trump’s tariff threats against Canada and Mexico are intended to pressure both countries into taking stronger action against illegal migration and drug trafficking into the US.

He said:

“The reason why he’s considering 25, 25 and 10 (percent), or whatever it’s going to be, on Canada, Mexico, and China, is because 300 Americans die every day from fentanyl overdoses.”

Meanwhile, at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Chinese Vice President Ding Xuexiang voiced opposition to protectionist policies, calling for a “win-win” approach to global trade—though he avoided direct mention of the US.

During his campaign, Trump had proposed tariffs as high as 60% on Chinese imports, signalling a more aggressive stance on trade relations with Beijing. https://www.coinlive.com/news/us-escalates-efforts-to-block-china-s-ai-advancements-with-new

Nations Rally to Counter Trump’s Trade Tariffs

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau warned that if President Trump proceeds with tariffs on Canada, his government will respond decisively, with all options under consideration.

Reports suggest that Ottawa is preparing retaliatory tariffs worth billions of dollars.

Meanwhile, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum affirmed her commitment to protecting Mexico’s sovereignty and pledged to address US actions “step by step.”

Despite China, Mexico, and Canada being the United States’ top trading partners, Trump views tariffs as a means to drive economic growth, boost employment, and increase tax revenue.

However, economists caution that such measures could lead to higher consumer prices and provoke retaliatory actions that may harm American businesses.

As the newly inaugurated president takes a hardline stance on trade, the question remains—will this bold strategy strengthen his position or create further economic tensions?