A White House statement referencing 245% tariffs on certain Chinese goods initially sparked confusion in Beijing, raising concerns about a potential escalation in the ongoing trade war. However, officials later clarified that the figure represents the cumulative tariffs imposed across multiple administrations—not a new, standalone rate.
Breaking Down the Tariff Math
While President Trump’s new tariffs on Chinese imports currently stand at 145%, the 245% figure cited in an April 15 document combines:
- Existing Biden-era tariffs (up to 100% on some goods)
- Previous Trump administration tariffs (7.5%–100%)
- The additional 145% recently announced
Products like electric vehicles and syringes, which already faced 100% duties under Biden, now fall under the 245% bracket. Meanwhile, other Chinese imports face 104% tariffs, and U.S. exports to China could see 84% duties starting April 2025.
China’s Response: “Ask the U.S.”
When pressed about the 245% calculation, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian deferred to U.S. officials, stating, “You can take this number to the U.S. side for an answer.” The Chinese Embassy in Washington has yet to comment further.
Trump’s Stance: “Ball Is in China’s Court”
The former president emphasized that Beijing must initiate a deal to resolve the trade dispute. “China needs to make a deal with us. We don’t have to make a deal with them,” Trump said via White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt. His latest tariffs include 125% on select goods and a 20% levy targeting China’s role in the fentanyl crisis.
Why It Matters
The mixed messaging highlights the complexities of layered tariffs—and the risk of miscalculations in an already volatile trade relationship. With both sides digging in, the path to de-escalation remains uncertain.
Key Takeaways:
- 245% = Total existing + new tariffs (not a fresh hike).
- China deflects, demanding U.S. clarification.
- Trump’s strategy: Pressure Beijing to negotiate.
- Electric vehicles, syringes among hardest-hit goods.
For details on affected U.S. products, see the full tariff list.