Donald Trump says 80% tariff on China ‘seems right’ ahead of trade talks "

Donald Trump says 80% tariff on China ‘seems right’ ahead of trade talks "

In advance of trade talks, Donald Trump asserts that a 80% tariff on China "seems right." Former U.S. Just days before crucial trade talks between the United States and China, President Donald Trump has once again made headlines by suggesting that imposing a tariff of 80 percent on Chinese goods "seems right." This remark, made via his social media platform Truth Social, has stirred up fresh debates among economists, global trade experts, and political analysts. It sets the tone for what could be a heated round of negotiations between the two global economic superpowers and signals Trump's unwavering hardline stance on China. The Situation Before the Trade Dispute The U.S.-China trade war began in 2018 during Trump’s first term in office. Citing unfair trade practices, intellectual property theft, and a large trade deficit, Trump’s administration imposed tariffs on hundreds of billions of dollars’ worth of Chinese imports. Chinese tariffs on American goods were raised in retaliation. The trade dispute had an impact on the global economy, affecting everything from stock markets to supply chains and consumer product prices. Although some tariffs were later eased or suspended, the general structure of these trade barriers remained. Trade policy has once again taken center stage in Trump's political messaging as he gets ready to run for president again in 2024. Trump’s Tariff Proposal: A Negotiation Tactic?

By floating the idea of an 80% tariff, Trump might be employing a classic negotiation tactic: start high, then compromise. According to insiders, current tariffs on some Chinese imports already hover around 145% due to cumulative duties under various regulations. Lowering that rate to 80% could be framed as a concession while still maintaining heavy trade restrictions. However, 80% is still significantly higher than pre-trade war levels and would have a substantial impact on both economies.

Experts believe that this proposal is meant to exert pressure ahead of the trade talks that are scheduled to take place in Geneva, rather than to be implemented immediately. It would appear that the objective is to secure additional concessions from China while reassuring American businesses that Trump will continue to protect domestic manufacturing. China’s Possible Reaction

China’s leadership, particularly Vice Premier He Lifeng, who is set to lead the Chinese delegation, is reportedly wary of such aggressive proposals. Beijing seeks mutual respect and benefit in any agreement, in addition to de-escalating the trade war. A symbolic reduction in tariffs — especially dropping below the 60% level that Trump campaigned on in 2024 — is one of China’s key expectations.

Beijing may interpret Trump's commitment to the 80 percent figure as evidence that the United States is not prepared for significant compromise. This could result in China walking away from the negotiating table, choosing instead to wait and see how the political winds shift in the U.S., particularly as the 2024 election nears.

Economic Implications

From an economic standpoint, the implications of such a high tariff are complex. On one hand, tariffs can protect domestic industries by making imported goods more expensive. This can lead to increased investment in local production and job creation. On the other hand, tariffs often result in higher prices for consumers and can disrupt supply chains.

Major shipping companies, such as Maersk, have already reported declining orders due to trade uncertainties. Cost planning and inventory management are also challenging issues for retailers and manufacturers in the United States. Some products, like Apple’s iPhones, are exempt from tariffs, but many everyday items are not. In addition, prolonged tariffs may prompt China to take additional retaliatory actions, thereby worsening the trade imbalance rather than reducing it. Political Calculations

Trump’s proposal also reflects a political strategy. By championing high tariffs, he appeals to his core base of voters — particularly in the manufacturing-heavy Midwest — who believe globalization has hurt American jobs. Trump's strategy was praised by Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick as a means of "starting strong and forcing breakthroughs." However, some economists and even Republican lawmakers are skeptical about the long-term effects of such policies. They argue that while the rhetoric may be politically effective, the economic fallout could be severe if diplomacy fails.

Conclusion

Donald Trump’s statement that an 80% tariff on Chinese imports “seems right” is more than just a number — it is a strategic move designed to influence the upcoming trade talks and energize his political campaign. As U.S. and Chinese officials prepare to meet in Geneva, the world watches closely to see whether these negotiations lead to a de-escalation or further economic division. Either way, Trump’s bold proposal ensures that trade with China remains a central issue in America’s political and economic discourse.