President Donald Trump has announced a sweeping new tariff of up to 245% on imports from China, marking one of the most aggressive moves in the ongoing U.S.-China trade war to date.

The decision, revealed in a White House fact sheet late Tuesday, comes in direct response to Beijing’s recent export bans on key strategic materials—including gallium, germanium, antimony, and rare earth magnets—used across critical industries like semiconductors, aerospace, defense, and EVs.

“China now faces up to a 245% tariff on imports to the United States as a result of its retaliatory actions,” the White House said.

Why Now?

The tariff hike follows:

  • China’s suspension of exports of six heavy rare earth metals, tightening global supply chains
  • China’s decision to raise tariffs on U.S. goods to 125%, in retaliation for Trump’s earlier 145% hike on Chinese imports
  • A broader strategic concern in Washington about dependence on foreign-controlled high-tech materials

National Security Lens

The White House confirmed it has launched a national security investigation into U.S. reliance on imported critical resources.

“These materials have military applications,” the statement noted, linking the move to efforts to secure domestic manufacturing and defense tech supply chains.

Global Trade Ripple

Despite the sharp escalation with China, the U.S. emphasized that other countries remain exempt from the new tariffs during ongoing trade talks.

“More than 75 countries have already reached out to discuss new trade deals,” the administration stated.

The announcement underscores Trump’s broader ‘America First Trade Policy’, with the administration portraying the tariffs as a continuation of efforts to “make America’s economy great again” and protect U.S. industries from geopolitical supply risks.

What’s Affected?

A detailed list of products subject to the 245% tariff has not yet been released. However, analysts warn that the scope could be wide, potentially impacting both industrial goods and consumer electronics.

This move significantly raises the stakes in the trade war, putting U.S.-China economic relations under renewed strain—and leaving global markets bracing for the fallout.

Disclosure: This article does not represent investment advice. The content and materials featured on this page are for educational purposes only.

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