Trump has a message for the rest of the world.
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Former President Donald J. Trump announced this week that major tariffs could soon be reimposed to protect American workers, revive U.S. manufacturing, and stop foreign nations from exploiting U.S. trade policy.
“America has been ripped off for decades by both allies and adversaries,” Trump said during a Wednesday Oval Office briefing. “Those days are over. We’re putting American jobs, American businesses, and American security first.”
According to Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, the Trump administration is actively speaking with over 90 countries about fair and reciprocal trade agreements. But President Trump made it clear: if no agreement is reached, tariffs will be set — swiftly and strongly.
“If we don’t strike a fair deal, we’ll impose a tariff,” Trump said. “That’s how we restore American strength. Expect movement in the coming weeks.”
Cracking Down on China’s Role in the Fentanyl Crisis
Trump also emphasized the 145% tariff now in place on Chinese imports — a penalty he tied directly to China’s connection to fentanyl, the deadly drug fueling America’s overdose epidemic.
“China is sending fentanyl into our communities, killing over 200,000 Americans a year,” Trump stated. “This is chemical warfare. That’s why we hit them with the highest tariff in history — and it’s going to stay that way unless they stop.”
No Trade Talks With China as Tensions Escalate
Despite pressure, Chinese officials are refusing to negotiate. Both the Chinese Ministry of Commerce and the Chinese Foreign Ministry confirmed Thursday that no economic or trade discussions are currently taking place with the United States.
Instead, China has imposed 125% retaliatory tariffs on American goods and is restricting exports of critical rare-earth minerals, which are essential for U.S. technology and defense industries.
Trump’s Tariffs Already Delivering Results
President Trump noted that previous tariffs — including 25% duties on imports from Mexico and Canada — have stopped America’s daily financial losses, estimated at $3 billion to $5 billion per day.
“We’re no longer hemorrhaging money,” Trump said. “Now we’re breaking even and starting to come out ahead. That revenue will go toward lowering taxes for hardworking Americans.”
He added that before tariffs were enacted, China enjoyed over $1.1 trillion in trade volume with the U.S. — far outpacing what America received in return.
“It was a one-sided relationship. Now it’s fair — or they’re out,” Trump said. “We’d like a deal. But if not, we’ll set the price, and they’ll either contribute or stay out.”
What’s Next: A ‘Make-or-Break Moment’ in U.S.-China Relations
Chinese economists acknowledge the toll the trade war is taking, but warn that China is pivoting to a nationalist economic strategy, prioritizing its own survival over foreign influence.
According to analysts, China may adopt a more aggressive stance if President Trump’s America First trade policy continues to isolate Beijing.
Trump, however, remains unfazed: “We’re done playing by their rules. This is about securing America’s future, defending our families, and rebuilding our economy. And we’re just getting started.”