Staff Reports
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt declared China’s retaliatory tariffs a strategic blunder during a Tuesday press briefing, framing President Donald Trump’s aggressive tariff hikes as a necessary defense of American economic sovereignty. Leavitt confirmed that new 50% tariffs on Chinese imports would take effect at midnight, raising total duties to 104% and amplifying tensions in the escalating trade war.
The additional tariffs target all Chinese imports, with enforcement beginning Wednesday. Leavitt emphasized there would be “no delays or extensions,” stating Trump believes “the era of American economic surrender is over”. This follows China’s decision to impose 34% retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods, set to take effect April 10.
Leavitt criticized Beijing’s retaliation as counterproductive: “It was a mistake for China to retaliate. When America is punched, punches back harder”. She argued that China’s hardline approach backfired by triggering further U.S. escalation, noting nearly 70 countries have sought negotiations with the Trump administration to avoid similar measures. The White House framed the tariffs as leverage to force trading partners to address “crippling trade deficits” and open markets to American goods.
U.S. stock markets initially surged on hopes for tariff negotiations but later retreated as tensions solidified. The S&P 500 neared bear market territory amid volatility linked to trade uncertainty. China’s Commerce Ministry vowed to “fight to the end,” while state media accused Trump of destabilizing global trade.
Leavitt outlined Trump’s “America First” blueprint, stressing that “a strong America cannot be dependent on foreign countries” for critical goods like food, medicine, and defense materials. The administration dismissed concerns about trade deficits, arguing the tariffs aim to revive domestic manufacturing and counter decades of perceived exploitation by trading partners.
As the new tariffs take effect, Trump’s team appears confident that economic pressure will force concessions, while China signals readiness for prolonged conflict. The standoff leaves global markets bracing for further disruptions.
