China Raises Tariffs on US Goods to 84 Percent in Fast Countermove After Washington Hike

On April 9, China’s Tariff Commission of the State Council issued a formal announcement confirming that, starting 12:01 PM on April 10, it will raise tariff rates on U.S. goods from 34% to 84%, a dramatic escalation in the ongoing trade dispute.

The decision, which was approved by the State Council, directly responds to the U.S. government’s move on April 8 to implement a parallel increase on Chinese imports. Beijing sharply criticized Washington’s action as an unjust escalation, stating that it “seriously undermines legitimate Chinese interests” and poses a threat to the rule-based multilateral trade system.

In its announcement, China emphasized that it views this latest U.S. action as a grave violation of economic norms. While reaffirming its commitment to defending national interests, China also urged the U.S. to reverse all unilateral tariff measures and return to the table for dialogue based on mutual respect.

The remaining aspects of China’s previous tariff policy under Announcement No. 4 of 2025 will remain in force, with the only change being the tariff increase to 84%.

This rapid escalation highlights the fragility of current U.S.-China trade relations, with both sides now imposing some of the highest tariffs in years, adding uncertainty to global markets and supply chains.