Donald Trump returns to the White House with plans to hit back at China over alleged unfair trade practices and its role in the fentanyl crisis. A potential 10% tariff on all Chinese imports could start February 1, with Trump suggesting rates could rise as high as 60%.

• Trade totaled $530 billion in the first 11 months of 2024.
• The US trade deficit with China reached $270.4 billion in the same period.
• Key US grievances include China's state subsidies, dumping, and restrictions on American firms.

Under Trump’s first term, a trade war led to a "phase one" deal where China pledged $200 billion in US imports. However, Beijing fulfilled only 58% of that target due to the pandemic and economic strains.

Biden maintained many Trump-era tariffs while focusing on restricting exports of sensitive technologies like chips and EVs to curb China's military and industrial growth.

Trump's potential tariffs, including a review of Chinese trade practices by April 1, may signal room for negotiation despite tough rhetoric.

Channelstv