Trump Announces 90-Day Tariff Pause for Select Nations, Raises China Tariffs to 125%

Washington, D.C. – U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday announced a temporary reprieve in his newly imposed tariff structure, confirming a 90-day pause on the full implementation of duties for select countries. The move comes as part of a broader strategy to encourage trade negotiations with international partners.

Simultaneously, the president escalated trade pressure on China, raising tariffs on Chinese imports to 125% with immediate effect. Trump cited Beijing’s “lack of respect to the World’s Markets” as the primary reason behind the drastic action.

“At some point, hopefully in the near future, China will realize that the days of ripping off the U.S.A., and other Countries, is no longer sustainable or acceptable,” Trump stated in a post on Truth Social.

Trade Tensions Reignite with China

The decision to intensify tariffs on Chinese goods marks one of the most aggressive trade measures taken by the administration. The elevated tariff is expected to hit a wide range of sectors, including electronics, automotive parts, and household items, potentially increasing costs for American businesses and consumers alike.

Analysts suggest this move could further strain already fragile U.S.-China trade relations, which have faced renewed tension since early 2025.

Temporary Relief for 75+ Nations

Contrasting his hardline approach on China, Trump extended an olive branch to more than 75 nations that have reportedly reached out to U.S. officials for dialogue over trade concerns. These countries, according to the president, have refrained from retaliatory actions in response to U.S. tariff initiatives.

“Based on the fact that more than 75 Countries have called Representatives of the United States... I have authorized a 90-day PAUSE, and a substantially lowered Reciprocal Tariff during this period, of 10%, also effective immediately,” Trump wrote.

This gesture aims to open a diplomatic window for reaching new trade agreements while offering temporary economic relief to U.S. allies and partners.

Cabinet Weighs In

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick praised the president’s announcement, describing it as “one of the most extraordinary Truth posts of his presidency.” He confirmed that he and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent were present during the drafting of the statement.

“The world is ready to work with President Trump to fix global trade, and China has chosen the opposite direction,” Lutnick wrote on social media.

Economic and Political Implications

The dual approach—pressuring China while easing tensions with allied nations—marks a strategic recalibration of the administration’s global trade stance. While the pause may offer short-term stability, the 125% tariff hike on China is likely to stir sharp responses from Beijing.

Market observers are now closely watching for any retaliatory actions from China and the overall impact on global supply chains, inflation, and investor sentiment.