HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON: Trump's China tariffs hit 145% as trade war heats up

Washington D.C.:  President Donald Trump has raised tariffs on Chinese imports to an effective 145%, the highest yet in his ongoing trade war with Beijing. The escalation was confirmed by White House officials Thursday, revealing that previously announced rates underestimated the full impact.

Trump had earlier announced a 90-day pause on reciprocal tariffs for most US trading partners — excluding China, Canada, and Mexico. While the rest of the world will face a reduced 10% tariff during this period, Canada and Mexico remain subject to 25% tariffs for non-USMCA-compliant goods.

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China’s 145% tariff rate reflects a stacking of prior 10% duties and new retaliatory measures following Beijing’s own tariffs on US goods. White House aides claim this preserves the financial weight of Trump's broader tariff policy, even during the temporary pause.

While administration officials, including Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, framed the move as a strategic negotiation tactic, Trump hinted that market losses influenced his decision. Wall Street responded positively to the 90-day reprieve, though concerns remain over China's escalating response.

China’s retaliatory tariffs target US agricultural exports, raising alarms among American farmers. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins noted emergency aid is being prepared if trade talks with China stall before the summer harvest.

Meanwhile, China is seeking alliances to counterbalance US pressure. Premier Li Qiang reached out to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to reinforce China-EU cooperation, though global support has been mixed.