President Donald Trump has recently implemented steep tariffs against Chinese imports while easing them for other countries during trade negotiations. This move is part of a series of executive orders aimed at repealing restrictions put in place during the Biden administration. The Trump administration announced that reciprocal tariffs on other countries would be lowered, while at the same time increasing tariffs on Chinese goods to 145%. In response, China has retaliated by raising tariffs on U.S. goods to 125%.
The tariff plan set a baseline tax of 10% on all imports to the U.S., with customized tariffs for countries that have higher tariffs on U.S. goods. Trump announced these tariffs at a ceremony in the Rose Garden, declaring that they would create new jobs for American workers. The baseline 10% tariffs took effect on Saturday, with additional tariffs coming into effect on Wednesday at midnight. Trump announced on Truth Social that reciprocal tariffs would remain paused for 90 days, during which countries will only face the baseline tariff.
Another executive order signed by Trump aimed at revitalizing the shipbuilding industry in the U.S., as China currently dominates global shipbuilding. The executive order requires agencies to develop a Maritime Action Plan and outlines steps to address China’s actions in the shipbuilding industry. Additionally, Trump reversed Obama and Biden-era conservation measures that limited water pressure in showers, stating his intention to “make showers great again.”
The Trump administration also revealed plans for talks with Iran, with the goal of preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. Although Trump referred to these talks as “direct,” Iran has described them as “indirect” negotiations. Middle East envoy Stever Witkoff is scheduled to meet with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Oman, although Iran insists that the discussions will be facilitated through a third party. Trump has made it clear that all options are on the table in dealing with Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent emphasized that China is at odds with the rest of the world due to its imbalanced economy and trade practices. The U.S. is taking steps to address issues such as China’s dominance in shipbuilding and is working to negotiate trade agreements that benefit American workers. Trump’s actions on tariffs, executive orders, and foreign negotiations reflect his commitment to prioritizing U.S. interests in global trade and foreign policy.
