China strikes back with 84% tariffs on US goods amid escalating trade war

China intensified its trade war with the United States on Wednesday, announcing steep new tariffs of 84% on US goods, up from a previously set rate of 34%, according to the country’s finance ministry.

The ministry also confirmed that additional tariffs would take effect on April 10, escalating tensions between the world’s two largest economies.

China’s commerce ministry also added 12 US entities to its export control list and designated six others as “unreliable entities” in a crackdown on American businesses operating in or with China. Among the companies are American Photonics, and SYNEXXUS, both of whom work with the American military.

"If the US insists on further escalating its economic and trade restrictions, China has the firm will and abundant means to take necessary countermeasures and fight to the end,” the Ministry of Commerce wrote in a statement introducing its white paper on trade with the US.

The measures were announced shortly after Beijing vowed to adopt “resolute and effective” steps to defend its interests, following the implementation of 104% duties on Chinese imports by US President Donald Trump.

The tit-for-tat actions mark a new peak in the trade war that threatens to disrupt supply chains and raise costs for American consumers and businesses already grappling with inflationary pressures.

“The US continues to abuse tariffs to pressure China. China firmly opposes this and will never accept this kind of bullying,” Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said during a regular news briefing in Beijing.

He urged the US to approach negotiations with “equality, respect, and mutual benefit” if it genuinely seeks a resolution.