In a dramatic U-turn, Trump reversed certain trade policies by imposing a universal 10% tariff on all imports, citing national security concerns under the U.S. International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). However, he kept the pressure on China, America’s second-largest trading partner, with a 50% hike—bringing total tariffs on Chinese goods to 104%. In retaliation, China imposed its own 50% tariff, raising its duties on U.S. goods to 84%.
“Citing a lack of respect,” Trump announced another increase—to 125%—which took effect at midnight, escalating the high-stakes standoff. Over the past week, both nations have engaged in a tit-for-tat exchange of tariffs, rattling global markets.
The intensifying conflict threatens to disrupt trade between the world’s two largest economies while forcing countries and companies to reconsider their business structures and supply chains.
Trump’s foreign policy is turning into “Art of the Squeal,” leans on noisy, attention-grabbing statements or actions, provocative tactics rather than conventional diplomacy. His dramatic tariff moves exemplify this approach—loud, confrontational, and designed to provoke a reaction—stirring up reactions on the world stage. But Beijing’s defiance signals growing opposition to Trump’s aggressive economic maneuvering.
As tensions escalate and economic costs mount, one critical question remains: Will the U.S. and China ever come to the negotiation table?
Latest Development:
April 10, 2025: Trump administration on Thursday confirmed that the U.S. tariff rate on Chinese imports now effectively totals 145%.
April 11, 2025: China strikes back with 125% tariffs on U.S. goods, starting April 12, 2025
TREND OBSERVATION
“The tariff war is no longer just about trade—it has evolved into a tool of Trump’s geopolitical theatre and posturing. Marked by attention-grabbing declarations, provocative statements and tactics over conventional diplomacy, each move fits into a broader chessboard strategy aimed at reshaping global alliances and economic dependencies. In this light, Trump’s foreign policy is less about the ‘Art of the Deal’ and more the ‘Art of the Squeal’—loud, reactive, and disruptive.”
– Augustine R., April 10, 2025, The Global Chessboard
Decoding Power Moves in Global Affairs
www.theglobalchessboard.com
Watch Rep. Horsford Confronts Trade Rep After Trump’s Shocking Market Move
List of countries affected by U.S. tariffs above 10% under Trump
| Country / Region | % Tariffs (As of April 10, 2025） |
| China | 145 |
| Lesotho | 50 |
| Cambodia | 49 |
| Laos | 48 |
| Madagascar | 47 |
| Vietnam | 46 |
| Myanmar | 44 |
| Sri Lanka | 44 |
| Falkland Islands | 41 |
| Syria | 41 |
| Mauritius | 40 |
| Iraq | 39 |
| Guyana | 38 |
| Bangladesh | 37 |
| Botswana | 37 |
| Liechtenstein | 37 |
| Serbia | 37 |
| Thailand | 36 |
| Bosnia and Herzegovina | 35 |
| North Macedonia | 33 |
| Angola | 32 |
| Fiji | 32 |
| Indonesia | 32 |
| Taiwan | 32 |
| Libya | 31 |
| Moldova | 31 |
| Switzerland | 31 |
| Algeria | 30 |
| Nauru | 30 |
| South Africa | 30 |
| Pakistan | 29 |
| Tunisia | 28 |
| Kazakhstan | 27 |
| India | 26 |
| South Korea | 25 |
| Brunei | 24 |
| Japan | 24 |
| Malaysia | 24 |
| Vanuatu | 22 |
| Côte d’Ivoire | 21 |
| Namibia | 21 |
| European Union | 20 |
| Jordan | 20 |
| Nicaragua | 18 |
| Zimbabwe | 18 |
| Israel | 17 |
| Malawi | 17 |
| Philippines | 17 |
| Zambia | 17 |
| Mozambique | 16 |
| Norway | 15 |
| Venezuela | 15 |
| Nigeria | 14 |
| Chad | 13 |
| Equatorial Guinea | 13 |
| Cameroon | 11 |
| Democratic Republic of the Congo | 11 |
Data Source: The White House, United States
Note: This “In Briefs” by Augustine R. covers an evolving situation. Developments may continue to occur. Stay tuned for updates as new information becomes available. Click here to view all articles by the author.
Featured Image: Cath Virginia / The Verge, Getty Images
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