Tension between the United States and China over tariffs has escalated further, with the US now imposing 104 per cent tariff on China. The 104 per cent tariff will go into effect starting Wednesday. The White House made the announcement regarding the tariffs on Tuesday. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stressed that it was a “mistake” for China to retaliate against the US. She stated this during a press briefing. Leavitt emphasised that the response is forceful and unyielding when America is challenged.
While Leavitt criticised China for its actions, she indicated that the doors are open if the country decides to make a deal with the US on tariffs.
Beijing’s Retaliation A ‘Mistake’
“It was a mistake for China to retaliate. When America is punched, He punches back harder. That’s why there will be 104 per cent tariffs going into effect on China tonight… If China reaches out to make a deal, he will be incredibly gracious,” Leavitt said.
Leavitt reiterated that the new tariffs are a part of an ongoing effort by the Trump administration to address what it deems unfair trade practices. These unfair trade practices have led to job losses and put economic strain on American workers, added Leavitt.
She further criticised China’s trade policies and accused them of exacerbating economic issues for American workers. Leavitt cleared that President Trump is not going to allow American workers and companies to be ripped off at the hands of foolish trade practices.
“President Trump made it very clear that the era of American economic surrender is over. President Trump is no longer going to allow American workers and companies to be ripped off at the hands of foolish trade practices that shift away millions of high-paying jobs and hollow out communities across the country,” said Leavitt.
Calling China’s retaliation a ‘mistake’, Leavitt stressed that Trump has a spine of steel, and he will not break.
“Countries like China, who have chosen to retaliate and try to double down on their mistreatment of American workers, are making a mistake. President Trump has a spine of steel, and he will not break, and America will not break under his leadership,” she added.
What’s Next In Trade War?
Despite the escalating trade war and tariff battle, Leavitt read out Trump’s intention on negotiations. She said that deals will only be made if they benefit American workers and address crippling trade deficits of the US.
Leavitt added, “America does not need other countries as much as other countries need us. President Trump knows this. He’s going to use the leverage of our market and our country to the advantage of the people he represents.”
She mentioned that “since the Liberation Day announcement, nearly 70 countries have already reached out to the president to begin a negotiation.”
President Trump’s message has been simple and consistent from the beginning:
To countries around the world — bring us your best offers, and President Trump will listen.
Deals will only be made if they benefit American workers and address our Nation’s crippling trade deficits.… pic.twitter.com/L4uBWK1atQ
— Karoline Leavitt (@PressSec) April 8, 2025
Earlier on Sunday, Trump had threatened an additional 50 per cent hike in tariffs on China. This came after China announced 34 per cent retaliatory tariff hike. Meanwhile, a spokesperson from China’s Ministry of Commerce described the US tariffs imposed on the country as “groundless.” He criticised them as a form of unilateral bullying practice.
Also Read: Did Elon Musk Urge Trump To Roll Back China Tariffs? Here Is The Reason Behind The Disagreement
