US announces sweeping retaliatory tariffs of up to 245% on Chinese imports

 

US President Donald Trump’s administration has announced a sweeping new retaliatory tariffs of up to 245 per cent on imports of Chinese goods, sharply escalating the trade conflict between the two countries. The decision, detailed in a fact sheet released by the White House last night, comes in response to Beijing’s recent export restrictions and retaliatory tariffs. The White House, in a statement, emphasised that the move is a part of President Trump’s ongoing “America First Trade Policy.” It said the new measures were justified under national security grounds. The administration accused China of deliberately restricting vital high-tech materials, including gallium, germanium, and antimony – elements critical for military, aerospace, and semiconductor industries. More recently, China suspended exports of six heavy rare earth metals and rare earth magnets, tightening its grip on components essential to global supply chains.

 

The Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian has responded to the White House’s claim that China now faces tariffs of up to 245 per cent on imports to the United States. Speaking at a press briefing, Lin asked the US side for the specific tax rate figures. He reiterated China’s position, stating that the tariff war was initiated by the United States. Lin stressed that Beijing’s retaliatory actions are “completely reasonable and legal, aimed at safeguarding the country’s rights and upholding fairness in international trade. The Spokesperson said that if the US wants to resolve the issue through dialogue and negotiation, it should stop exerting extreme pressure, stop threatening and blackmailing, and talk to China based on equality, respect and mutual benefit.