Trump threatens China with 155% tariffs unless trade deal signed by 1 November

United States President Donald Trump escalated pressure on China on 19 October, threatening to impose 155% tariffs on Chinese imports starting 1 November if a fair trade deal is not reached, amid preparations for a meeting with President Xi Jinping at the APEC summit in South Korea. In an interview with Fox News, Trump stated, "China's paying 55% and a potential 155% come November 1st unless we make a deal." He reiterated: "If they don’t do business with us … they’ll be in big trouble." 

The warning, on top of existing 55% duties revived after Trump's return to office, signals a hardening stance as he seeks to address what he calls China's "rough" treatment of the US. Experts like former US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer warn this marks a "very different kind of trade war," with broader global implications for supply chains and economies.

Trump's tariff threats and rationale

Trump's comments came during a Fox News appearance on 19 October, where he said: "China has been very rough on us." He floated the 155% figure as "potential," adding: "Now they've forced me to charge them what is the equivalent of 155% to 157%." The president claimed he discussed the issue with Xi, predicting a deal but warning: "Trump puts China on notice with 155% tariff threat." He stated, "Trump says he is 'not looking to destroy China' after previously threatening tariffs."

The tariffs would apply if no agreement is reached by 1 November, ahead of the APEC summit where Trump expects Taiwan on the agenda.

Trump's rationale centres on China's trade practices, saying: "Trump raises stakes with China, floats 155% tariff ahead of meeting with Xi in South Korea." He mentioned, "'Potential 155% tariffs, unless...': Trump's warning to China over 'fair trade deal'." The move builds on his first-term tariffs, which he claims protected US industries but drew retaliation from Beijing.

Expert warnings on a new trade war

Analysts describe the escalation as a "very different kind of trade war," with Megha Bahree stating: "US-China now in a ‘very different kind of trade war’, experts warn." The higher tariffs could disrupt global supply chains, raising costs for US consumers and allies like India.

Lighthizer noted: "Trump says he is 'not looking to destroy China' after previously threatening tariffs." Economists warn of inflation spikes and market crashes if implemented, with one report stating, "Trump puts China on notice with 155% tariff threat - is a November market crash coming?"

Trump's threats coincide with his meeting Xi at APEC, where he expects a deal but warns: "Trump Expects Taiwan on Agenda for Xi Meet, Predicts Trade Deal." China has responded with rare-earth export curbs, escalating tensions.

The US aims for "fair deal," but experts like the Fortune report warn: "Trump threatened China with 155% tariffs. Taco man becoming random number guy?"