Don’t let the media confuse you, Trump isn’t backing down he’s making corrections.
President Trump once again puts America First as U.S.-China trade tensions rise.
President Trump: 80% Tariff on Chinese Imports “Seems Right”
In a bold move Friday morning, President Donald J. Trump floated the idea of slapping an 80% tariff on Chinese goods—signaling strength just as top-level trade talks are set to begin in Switzerland.
“China should open up its market to USA — would be so good for them!!! Closed markets don’t work anymore!!!” Trump posted on Truth Social.
He added: “80% Tariff on China seems right! Up to Scott B,” referencing Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who is taking the lead in the high-stakes negotiations.
White House Clarifies: “President Just Set the Tone”
Later in the day, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt clarified the president’s remarks, stating the 80% figure wasn’t an official policy—yet.
“That was a number the president threw out there,” she told reporters. “He is not going to unilaterally reduce tariffs on China. He remains committed to protecting American workers and industries.”
Major Weekend Talks with China Underway
Bessent and Chief Trade Negotiator Jamieson Greer are meeting with Chinese officials in Switzerland this weekend. The outcome could shape U.S.-China relations for years.
Behind the scenes, sources say the administration has floated the idea of reducing tariffs from the current 145% down to 50%—a dramatic shift if finalized.
But for now, no firm commitments have been made.
“We’ll see what happens this weekend,” Leavitt said. “You’ll hear directly from the Treasury Secretary or the President when the talks conclude.”
Tariff War Escalates: Trump Holds the Line for American Jobs
The U.S.-China trade war has grown more intense since President Trump’s April 2 “Liberation Day” tariffs, a strategic move to reassert U.S. sovereignty in global trade.
In response, China slapped tariffs of 125% on American goods.
As of now, U.S. tariffs on Chinese products stand at 145%—but an 80% rate would still keep strong pressure on Beijing while easing strain on some U.S. industries.
UK Trade Deal Offers Clues to Trump’s Vision
Meanwhile, a new U.S.-UK trade deal announced Thursday includes just a 10% tariff—highlighting Trump’s willingness to reward allies and punish adversaries.
Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick says the UK agreement will be a “template” for future trade pacts.
American farmers stand to benefit significantly from increased access to British markets.
Navarro: Trump Team Locked in for Global Trade Battle
Senior Trade Adviser Peter Navarro confirmed Thursday that negotiators Greer and Lutnick are driving Trump’s aggressive new trade strategy and are booked for international talks through July.
While Navarro declined to comment on the China negotiations specifically, he emphasized one thing: “President Trump is committed to fair trade, strong borders, and bringing manufacturing back home.”
America First, No Apologies
Once again, President Trump is showing bold leadership on the world stage—willing to shake up the status quo, defend American workers, and hold China accountable.
Stay tuned as the Trump administration continues to reshape the global economy on America’s terms.