ALBAWABA- In a bold escalation of trade tensions, U.S. President Donald Trump announced a 90-day pause on U.S. tariffs for most countries, excluding China, which will now face a steep 125% tariff, effective immediately.
The announcement was made via a post on Truth Social, where Trump cited China’s "lack of respect for global markets" as the reason for the tariff hike. “The days of ripping off the USA and other countries are over,” he stated.
Meanwhile, more than 75 countries have reportedly reached out to the U.S. Departments of Commerce, Treasury, and the USTR to engage in trade negotiations.
In response, Trump authorized a temporary tariff reduction to 10% for those nations, praising their restraint from retaliatory actions.
U.S. Treasury Secretary echoed Trump's stance, warning that “China’s actions will damage its own economy, not ours,” and confirming that the tariff pause includes close allies like Canada and Mexico.
He stressed Washington’s openness to dialogue with non-retaliatory partners, branding China as the sole aggressor in what the administration refuses to call an "economic war."
The White House reinforced this position, signaling readiness to raise tariffs further if China escalates. “We’re the best place to make deals,” a spokesperson declared, highlighting a global shift in trade alliances.
