Trump Pauses Tariffs for 90 Days, But Hits China with Immediate 125% Hike
President Donald Trump has announced a major shift in trade policy, deciding to temporarily reduce import tariffs on most trade partner countries to just 10% for a period of 90 days, in order to create room for trade negotiations. However, in a sharp contrast, China will face an immediate tariff hike to 125%.
The announcement came on April 9, 2025, just 24 hours after the U.S. raised tariffs by 40% on goods from many countries, causing major disruptions in global markets. It marked an important moment in the ongoing trade war between the U.S. and its key trading partners.
Trump explained that the temporary tariff relief responds to demands from more than 75 countries seeking trade negotiations with the U.S., especially on issues like currency manipulation and non-tariff trade barriers, which have contributed to global trade imbalances.
Nevertheless, China is excluded from this relief. Trump stated that China continues to disregard international trade rules and behaves unfairly toward other countries. As a result, the U.S. must apply maximum pressure by raising import tariffs on Chinese goods from 104% to 125%, effective immediately.
Speaking to reporters, Trump said, “A lot of people are getting a bit too panicked. They’re worried—like athletes getting nervous before a big game.” He said this decision would help calm the markets and lead to fairer trade deals.
While other trading partners receive a temporary tariff break, China faces a hardline response, prompting an immediate countermeasure from the Chinese government. China announced an 84% tariff on U.S. imports and declared its stance: “China will fight to the end” to protect its economy and control over trade
Meanwhile, the 90-day tariff pause does not apply to imports from Canada and Mexico. These countries remain subject to a 25% tariff on products related to fentanyl, unless they comply with rules of origin requirements under the USMCA (U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement).
Analysts see this tariff relief as a strategic move by Trump to reduce global market resistance and maintain domestic stability, while also putting more pressure on China to negotiate a new deal under U.S. terms.
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