Unprecedented, the White House announced an increase of 245% import tariffs on some Chinese goods

The US government recently adopted a series of tariff measures against Chinese imported goods. Specifically, the US first imposed an equivalent tariff of 125% on goods from China, and on this basis, it added the 20% tariff previously imposed due to the fentanyl issue. The cumulative effect of these two tariffs has led to the effective tariff rate for Chinese imported goods climbing to an astonishing 145%.In a statement on the launch of a security investigation into key mineral import countries released by the White House on Tuesday (15th), it pointed out that Chinese products may face tariffs of up to 245% due to China's retaliation.

Although the White House has not officially announced the implementation of new tariffs,However, according to the latest data compilation, there have been significant differences in the tariff rates faced by different Chinese imported goods. Among them, the tariff rates faced by specific commodities such as syringes and needles are particularly eye-catching, possibly as high as 245%.This high tariff level is the result of the combined effect of various factors such as current relevant tariffs, steel and aluminum automobile tariffs, additional tariffs and mutual tariffs.

Some commodity categories have previously been subject to higher tariffs. On this basis, if the newly imposed 20% tariff and 125% reciprocal tariffs are added, the accumulated tariff rate will be as high as 245%, but this high tax rate is only applicable to some specific categories. Taking electric vehicles as an example, in August 2024, the Biden administration raised the import tariffs of China's electric vehicles to 100%. Coupled with the 20% tariff imposed due to the fentanyl issue and the 125% reciprocal tariff, the final comprehensive tariff rate reached 245%.

The intricate trade rules and tariff policies present huge challenges to U.S. companies that rely on Chinese suppliers. Currently, the average tax rate for imported goods has exceeded the price of the product itself.This puts importers under unprecedented pressure in purchasing decisions, cost structure and final consumer prices.

It is worth noting that during President Trump's administration, the newly introduced 125% tariff policy in the United States is expected to further intensify the superposition effect of various existing tariffs, thereby having a more profound impact on the overall tariff rate of Chinese goods. These tariffs cover multiple categories, including basic tariffs, protectionist tariffs before 2025, steel, aluminum, and automobile tariffs, as well as tariffs related to the fentanyl issue and the U.S.-China mutual retaliation action.

Specifically, the tariff rates of goods imported from China, such as syringes, lithium-ion batteries, wool sweaters, electric cars and toys, are significantly different, and the tariff rates of some products are even as high as 245%. These tariff policies, combined with the complexity of trade regulations and exemptions, further highlight the serious challenges posed by the ever-changing trade pattern between the United States and China to businesses.

Previously, Trump threatened on the 10th local time that if the relevant countries cannot reach an agreement with the United States within 90 days of the US suspending tariffs, they will resume their previous tariff policies.

On April 11, the State Council Tariff Commission issued an announcement to adjust the imposition of tariff measures on imported goods originating from the United States. Starting from April 12, 2025, the tariff rate on the United States will be increased from 84% to 125%. Given that under the current tariff level, there is no possibility of market acceptance of goods imported from the United States from the United States, if the United States continues to impose tariffs on goods imported from the United States, China will ignore it.

April 11,The Ministry of Foreign Affairs responded that "US tariffs on China reached 145%"! China never takes this trick!Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian presided over a regular press conference. A reporter asked a question about "The US said the tariffs on China reached 145%", Lin Jian said,China has repeatedly stated its solemn position on the issue of tariffs. There is no winner in the tariff war and trade war. China is unwilling to fight, but it is not afraid of fighting. If the US really wants to resolve the problem through dialogue and negotiation, it should stop exerting extreme pressure and act recklessly. China never takes this trick. Any dialogue must be based on equality, respect and reciprocity. If the US insists on fighting a tariff war and a trade war, China will definitely accompany it to the end.