Trump’s Tariff Surge on China: Which Nations Will Feel the Heat Most? | PRIMENEWSNOW

Trump’s Tariff Surge: A New Chapter in US-China Trade Tensions

On October 10, 2025, US President Donald Trump announced a significant escalation in trade tensions by declaring a 100% tariff on all Chinese imports. This measure, set to take effect by November 1, or sooner if China continues its “aggressive” trade practices, marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing trade conflict.

This new tariff raises the total US duty on Chinese products to 130%, representing one of the most assertive trade actions in recent history. Coinciding with new export restrictions on critical software, this move underscores the intensifying economic standoff.

Trump’s Response to China’s Trade Moves

In a statement on Truth Social, Trump labeled China’s recent export limitations as a “hostile act” necessitating a robust response. “China has adopted an extremely aggressive trade stance… by November 1, 2025, they plan to implement extensive export controls on nearly all their products,” he stated.

This development further strains the already fraught relationship between the world’s two largest economies.

Both Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping are anticipated to attend the upcoming Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit in South Korea later this month.

Trump’s Stance on Meeting Xi

Despite recent discussions with Xi, Trump told reporters there was “no reason to meet” with the Chinese leader following China’s “very hostile” trade actions. However, he noted that no official cancellation had been made.

These comments come shortly after talks about a potential trade agreement and the transfer of TikTok’s ownership to US interests.

Immediate Repercussions of the Tariffs

Experts warn that the new tariffs could further disrupt global supply chains, particularly affecting the technology, electric vehicle, and defense sectors. Economists predict that the 100% tariff could lead to worldwide price hikes, given China’s pivotal role as a supplier of industrial and consumer goods.

Supply chain disruptions for electronics and clean energy products are expected to impact Asia, Europe, and the United States, affecting industries and consumers alike. The immediate effect has been felt in global markets, with US stock indices experiencing significant declines.

Global Ripple Effects

As major trading partners of the United States, Mexico and Canada are likely to face substantial economic repercussions from the new tariffs. Other Asian countries, including South Korea, Japan, and Singapore, are also vulnerable to the trade war’s ripple effects.

Strong trade connections with both the US and China mean that supply chain disruptions could slow economic growth in these nations, particularly in sectors like electronics, technology, and manufacturing. The announcement of the 100% tariff has also led to increased volatility in global financial markets.

US stock indices fell sharply, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average dropping nearly 900 points, according to The Wall Street Journal. Investors are increasingly concerned about the potential for a prolonged trade conflict and its broader impact on global economic stability.

Opportunities for Indian Exports

According to S C Ralhan, President of the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (PTI), the US’s higher tariffs on China could shift demand towards India, which exported goods worth USD 86 billion to the US in 2024-25. “We may benefit from this escalation,” Ralhan noted.

A textile exporter added that the increased US customs duties on Chinese imports open significant export opportunities for India to the American market.