U.S. Raises Tariffs on China to 30% Amid Trade Policy Shift
June 27, 2025 — Washington, D.C.
In a significant escalation of trade tensions, U.S. Treasury Secretary
Amanda Bessent announced today that tariffs on Chinese imports have been raised
to 30%, while Chinese tariffs on American goods remain at 10%.
The move marks a renewed hardline stance from Washington amid growing
bipartisan pressure to counter China’s trade practices, technology policies,
and industrial subsidies.
“We are prioritizing American workers and national competitiveness,” Secretary Bessent stated at a press briefing. “For too long, U.S. manufacturers have been undercut by unfair pricing and state-backed advantages. This tariff realignment reflects that reality.”
Background and Context
The tariff increase follows months of quiet reassessments of U.S.–China
trade policy, with the Biden administration previously holding rates near 25%.
While China has maintained a relatively modest 10% average tariff on U.S.
goods, today’s announcement effectively widens the trade gap and signals a more
confrontational phase in bilateral economic relations.
Market and Industry Reactions
Global markets responded cautiously. The S&P 500 dipped 0.4% in
early trading, while shares in logistics and manufacturing firms saw slight
declines. U.S. exporters, particularly in agriculture and heavy machinery,
expressed concern over potential retaliatory measures.
Industry experts warn of ripple effects, including:
- Higher import
costs for U.S. consumers and businesses
- Potential
Chinese restrictions on American brands operating in China
- Strain on
global supply chains already under pressure
China’s Response
Chinese trade officials have not yet issued a formal response. However,
state media has suggested that “measured countermeasures” may be on the table.
Analysts expect Beijing to wait before retaliating, opting instead for
strategic pressure through non-tariff barriers and regulatory scrutiny.
Looking Ahead
The 30% tariff marks the highest across-the-board levy on Chinese goods
since the peak of the U.S.-China trade war in 2019. While Bessent emphasized
this was “not a decoupling,” the policy shift may further accelerate trends of
diversification and regional supply chain shifts in Asia and Latin America.
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