Donald Trump threatens to suspend 'all talks' with China, issues 24-hour ultimatum to reverse 34% tariff hike

On Monday, US President Donald Trump issued a stern warning to China, demanding the withdrawal of its recent tariff hike or facing additional economic measures.

He also said that if China does not withdraw the increased tariffs, ‘all talks’ with the country will be suspended. The US President has allotted a day for China to agree to US terms.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump set a deadline of April 8, 2025, for Beijing to roll back its 34% increase on US exports.

"If China does not withdraw its 34% increase above their already long-term trading abuses by tomorrow, April 8, 2025, the United States will impose ADDITIONAL tariffs," Trump stated. He further warned, "All talks with China concerning their requested meetings with us will be terminated! Negotiations with other countries, which have also requested meetings, will begin taking place immediately."

Escalation in US-China Trade War

The trade dispute between the two largest economies has intensified after China responded to Trump’s April 2 tariff announcement with its own retaliatory duties. The latest tariffs, amounting to a total of 54% duties on Chinese goods, have further strained economic ties.

Trump, a long-time critic of Beijing’s trade practices, emphasized that he had forewarned China against imposing tariffs on US exports. He reiterated that his administration would continue to raise levies if China did not back down.

"China issued retaliatory tariffs of 34%, on top of their already record-setting tariffs, non-monetary tariffs, illegal subsidization of companies, and massive long-term currency manipulation," Trump remarked. "Any country that retaliates against the U.S. by issuing additional tariffs, above and beyond their existing long-term tariff abuse of our nation, will be immediately met with new and substantially higher tariffs."

China Accuses US of Economic Bullying

Beijing has condemned the US actions, accusing Washington of engaging in "unilateralism, protectionism, and economic bullying." Chinese officials stated that the US tariffs are an attempt to suppress economic growth in developing nations and could destabilize global markets.

China also defended its latest tariff measures, arguing that they were necessary to counteract Washington’s aggressive trade stance. "The United States is jeopardizing the economic stability of emerging markets by imposing tariffs on multiple countries," a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said on Monday.

Implications for Global Trade

The latest developments in the US-China trade war have sparked concerns among global investors, with stock markets experiencing volatility. Economic analysts warn that a prolonged trade conflict between the two superpowers could have far-reaching consequences for global supply chains, particularly in the technology and manufacturing sectors.

With the deadline looming, all eyes are on China’s response. If Beijing fails to comply, the world could witness another escalation in the trade war, potentially impacting international commerce and economic stability.

FAQs

When is the deadline given by Donald Trump for China to act on tariffs?

Trump has set April 8, 2025, as the deadline for China to remove its tariffs. If Beijing does not comply, additional tariffs and a suspension of negotiations will follow.

How has China responded to Trump’s tariffs?

China has condemned the U.S. actions, accusing Washington of economic bullying and unilateral protectionism. Chinese officials argue that U.S. tariffs are an attempt to stifle developing economies and have defended their latest measures as a justified response.