The White House announced Tuesday that 104% tariffs on Chinese imports will go into effect at 12:01 a.m. Eastern Time, escalating trade tensions. The move triggered a retreat in U.S. stocks and raised concerns about a global recession. While the administration plans to talk with allies like South Korea and Japan, China has vowed to “fight to the end” in response to these tariffs.
.@PressSec: "It was a mistake for China to retaliate. When America is punched, [President Trump] punches back harder. That's why there will be 104% tariffs going into effect on China tonight... If China reaches out to make a deal, he will be incredibly gracious." pic.twitter.com/9H76xQsmQA
— Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) April 8, 2025
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said, “It was a mistake for China to retaliate. When America is punched, (President Trump) punches back harder. That's why there will be 104% tariffs going into effect on China tonight. If China reaches out to make a deal, he will be incredibly gracious.”