President Donald Trump’s latest move in the global trade war has zeroed in on China — and it’s American consumers who could soon feel the impact in checkout lines, online carts, and grocery aisles.
In a dramatic reversal, Trump paused the sweeping reciprocal tariffs he had just launched — but only for 90 days, and only for countries that didn’t retaliate. China wasn’t on that list. Instead, Trump raised tariffs on Chinese imports to a staggering 145%, after Beijing slapped an 84% retaliatory tariff on U.S. goods earlier Wednesday.
The White House says these tariffs are aimed at re-industrializing America and ending what Trump calls “decades of trade abuse.” But that strategy comes with a real cost: higher prices for everyday products, especially those made in China — which, frankly, includes a lot of what’s on American shelves.
What Could Get More Expensive?
According to Cornell University economist Wendong Zhang, the United States depends heavily on China for essential goods, including:
- 73% of smartphones
- 78% of laptops
- 87% of video game consoles
- 77% of toys sold in the U.S.
- A large share of fast fashion sold through platforms like Shein and Temu
Apple, for instance, manufactures around 90% of iPhones in China, and analysts estimate the new tariffs could cost the company billions — potentially adding $100–$200 to the price of an iPhone.
Will Groceries Be Affected?
Yes — and not just because of China. While the U.S. paused tariffs on Mexico and Canada, food imports from other nations remain vulnerable.
What could see price increases soon?
- Bananas from Guatemala
- Grapes from Peru
- Seafood from Vietnam and India
- Coffee and wine from Europe, Argentina, Australia, and more
Add in the 10% universal tariff still in effect, and supermarket prices are likely to creep up in the coming weeks, especially for perishable items.
Should You Stock Up?
Some Americans already are. Costco shoppers have been loading up on essentials, and Bloomberg reports a surge in iPhone purchases ahead of potential price hikes.
However, financial experts warn: don’t panic-buy. As New York Times columnist Ron Lieber puts it, unless prices rise dramatically and stay high for months, “you could lose more in savings or debt than you gain from bulk deals.”
What’s Trump’s Message?
In his words:
“It’s time to make America build again. If that means your iPhone costs more — it’s worth it.”
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent echoed that:
“American prosperity isn’t about cheap baubles from China. It’s about bringing factories home.”
China’s Response?
Beijing is furious. The Chinese Foreign Ministry released a statement calling the tariffs “arrogant and bullying,” and promised to “fight to the end.”
The U.S. imported $439 billion worth of goods from China in 2024. With tariffs now at 145%, nearly everything from electronics to sweatshirts is caught in the crossfire.
As the world watches, consumers may want to hold their receipts — and their breath.
More: 145% Tariffs and a Global Showdown: China Rejects US “Arrogance”
