President Trump is standing strong against China’s unfair trade practices. The White House confirmed new tariffs of 104% on Chinese imports after China refused to back down from its own retaliatory measures. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt declared that China made a “mistake” by escalating the trade war, warning that America will always punch back harder.
China slapped a 34% tariff on U.S. goods last week, prompting Trump to respond with an additional 50% duty. This brings the total tariffs on Chinese products to 104%, effective immediately. Leavitt emphasized that Trump’s tough stance protects American workers and industries from being exploited. She said China’s leaders “don’t know how to make a deal” that respects U.S. interests.
The trade war has intensified rapidly. Trump previously imposed tariffs of 10% and 20% on Chinese goods, citing unfair practices and the fentanyl crisis. China retaliated by targeting U.S. agriculture, energy, and tech sectors. Recent measures include suspending soybean exports and blocking American logs over pest concerns. Leavitt called these moves “desperate” and harmful to Chinese consumers.
Conservatives praise Trump for refusing to bend to foreign pressure. Unlike past presidents, Trump prioritizes American jobs over globalist deals. Leavitt noted that 70 countries have sought new trade agreements with the U.S. since Trump’s tariffs were announced. She said nations are “falling over themselves” to reform unfair policies because they respect Trump’s leadership.
China’s economy is feeling the strain. Stock markets plunged as tariffs hit critical industries. State media vowed to “fight to the end,” but experts say China lacks leverage. Trump’s policies aim to rebuild U.S. manufacturing and reduce dependence on foreign goods. Leavitt stressed that America must control its supply chains for food, medicine, and defense materials.
Democrats and some economists claim tariffs hurt consumers. But conservatives argue short-term costs are worth long-term gains. Trump’s team highlights rising wages and factory job growth as proof his strategy works. Leavitt dismissed critics, saying trade deficits have crippled America for decades and “the jig is up” for nations exploiting U.S. openness.
This showdown mirrors Trump’s first term, when tariffs reshaped global trade. Critics called him reckless, but results included revised NAFTA and China deals. Leavitt said Trump’s “spine of steel” ensures no repeat of weak negotiations. She warned that countries retaliating will face even harsher consequences, urging them to offer fair deals instead.
The White House remains confident. Trump believes tariffs pressure China to reform while revitalizing America’s heartland. As Leavitt put it, “America does not need other countries as much as they need us.” With strong leadership, the U.S. is reclaiming its economic destiny—one tough negotiation at a time.
