Trump set to impose new tariffs on China, electronics

US President Donald Trump recently declared that no country would be exempt from tariffs aimed at correcting unfair trade imbalances.

He emphasized that the United States would stand firm, particularly with China, which he accused of being the worst offender in terms of unfair trade practices. Trump also noted that a decision regarding Iran’s trade status would be made soon.

The president hinted that tariffs on mobile phones are likely to be introduced shortly, though he mentioned there would be some flexibility in how these tariffs are applied.

He explained that certain companies might receive leniency, particularly in relation to semiconductor tariffs, although specific details have yet to be finalized. Trump confirmed that the official tariff rate on semiconductors would be announced next week.

This announcement followed a strong response from China, which urged the US to completely withdraw its retaliatory tariffs.

A spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Commerce publicly called on Washington to revise its trade policies and abandon what it described as “wrong measures” — including retaliatory tariffs — in favor of a path based on mutual respect and cooperation.

Currently, the US imposes a 145 per cent tariff on most Chinese imports, while China maintains a 125 per cent tariff on American goods. This ongoing tariff conflict continues to heighten tensions between the world’s two largest economies, as both nations aim to protect their domestic industries and secure favorable trade terms.