China swiftly retaliated against the Trump administration’s “Liberation Day” tariffs by imposing a 34% tariff on all U.S. imports, effective April 10. The Chinese Ministry of Finance criticized the U.S. tariffs as “unilateral bullying” and called for a resolution through equal consultation. Additionally, China is restricting exports of rare earth minerals essential for various industries and has blocked 11 U.S. defense and drone companies from trading in China. An extra 16 U.S. firms were added to China’s export control list. China also filed a complaint with the World Trade Organization, alleging the U.S. tariffs violate WTO rules.
It didn’t take long for China to respond to the Trump administration’s new “Liberation Day” tariffs. Starting April 10, China is implementing a corresponding 34% tariff on all imports from the US.
The press release from the Chinese Ministry of Finance characterizes the Trump tariffs as a “unilateral bullying practice” and “urges the United States to promptly revoke its unilateral tariff actions and address trade disagreements through discussions that are equitable, respectful, and mutually advantageous.”
Additionally, China is imposing restrictions on the export of rare earth minerals, which are essential for various sectors, including semiconductors and electric vehicles, effective immediately. Alongside the 34% tariff, China has prohibited 11 US defense and drone companies from engaging in trade and exports to China. Furthermore, 16 additional US companies have been placed on China’s export control list.
China’s Ministry of Commerce has also lodged a complaint with the World Trade Organization, alleging that the Trump tariffs breach WTO regulations. In 2024, the US exported $143.5 billion worth of goods to China.
Source (in Chinese)