US slaps 104% tariff on Chinese imports after Beijing refuses to back down: Report

“The 104% additional tariff will be collected starting tomorrow, April 9,” Lawrence quoted the press secretary as saying.

The US–China trade conflict intensified sharply on Monday as the White House confirmed a sweeping new round of tariffs on Chinese imports, signaling a volatile new chapter in the ongoing standoff between the world’s two largest economies.

According to Fox Business reporter Edward Lawrence, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre announced that an additional 104% tariff on certain Chinese goods took effect at noon Eastern Time on April 8, following Beijing’s refusal to remove its retaliatory measures.

“The 104% additional tariff will be collected starting tomorrow, April 9,” Lawrence quoted the press secretary as saying.

White House Press Secretary says 104% additional tariffs went into effect at noon eastern time because China has not removed it's retaliation. The 104% additional tariff will be collected starting tomorrow April 9th. #trade #Tariffs #POTUS #china
Edward Lawrence (@EdwardLawrence) April 8, 2025

The steep tariffs mark a dramatic escalation in the dispute and follow President Donald Trump’s warning last week that punitive measures would be imposed if China did not roll back its 34% retaliatory tariffs. With Beijing holding its ground, Washington responded with a measure that raises the stakes and adds fresh pressure to global markets already on edge.

Being more clear: When the tariffs go into effect at 12:01a April 9th. China will see an additional 104% added to imports. China missed it's 12p Eastern Time deadline to remove retaliation tariffs set by President Trump. #Tariffs #Trade #POTUS #China Edward Lawrence (@EdwardLawrence) April 8, 2025

China’s Ministry of Commerce sharply criticized the US move, calling it “a mistake on top of a mistake”, and vowed to “fight to the end” in what is shaping up to be a prolonged economic confrontation.

(This is a developing story, stay tuned for more)