Trump imposes additional 10% tariff on Chinese imports
President Donald Trump on Thursday announced an additional 10% tariff on imports from China, citing continued fentanyl inflows into the US.
Trump emphasized that fentanyl, a synthetic opioid, originates in China and enters the US via Canada and Mexico. Previously, he had warned of imposing tariffs if China failed to stop the drug trade, along with 25% tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico for allowing undocumented migrants to cross into the US.
These tariffs, including the new 10% duty on China, will take effect on March 4.
“Drugs are still pouring into our country from Mexico and Canada at very high and unacceptable levels,” Trump stated on Truth Social. “A large percentage of these drugs, much of them in the form of fentanyl, are made in and supplied by China.”
Highlighting the severity of the crisis, he noted that over 100,000 Americans died last year due to fentanyl use.
“Until it stops or is seriously limited, the proposed tariffs scheduled for March 4 will go into effect as planned. China will likewise be charged an additional 10% tariff on that date,” he added.
Reciprocal Tariffs and Impact on India
Trump also reaffirmed the April 2 reciprocal tariff plan, which will impose equal tariffs on imports from countries that levy higher duties on US goods.
India, often mentioned by Trump in this context, could be affected, especially in pharmaceutical exports, as it is the second-largest supplier of medicines to the US after China. However, no specific dates have been announced for new tariffs on pharmaceuticals.
Earlier this week, Trump also vowed to impose 25% tariffs on the European Union, claiming the bloc was “formed to screw the United States.” He hinted at duties on “cars and all other things,” though specific details remain unclear.
