Advocacy
Update: Trump Increases Tariffs on China Over Retaliatory Measures
April 9, 2025 | 2 minute read
Wednesday, April 9 Update:
President Trump announced plans to “pause” tariffs on many countries and increase tariffs on China in retribution for retaliatory tariffs. China's tariffs are now set at 145%, which includes a 125% reciprocal tariff plus a 20% fentanyl EO tariff.
Tuesday, April 8 Update:
The White House has confirmed the additional 50% tariff on Chinese imports will begin at 12:01 am ET, tomorrow, April 9.
Original Post Monday, April 7:
Trump Threatens 50% Tariff on China
President Donald Trump has issued an ultimatum to China, responding to what he described as a “Retaliatory Tariff” increase of 34%, remove the tariffs or the U.S. will add an additional 50% tariff on goods from China. Trump accused Beijing of longstanding trade abuses, including “non-monetary tariffs,” “illegal subsidization,” and “massive long-term currency manipulation.”
Trump warned that unless China withdraws the newly added 34% tariff hike by April 8, 2025, the U.S. will impose additional tariffs of 50% on Chinese goods, effective the next day. He also announced a freeze on all trade negotiations with China, stating that any requested meetings will be canceled if the tariffs are not rolled back. Instead, Trump said negotiations will shift to “other countries” who have sought trade discussions.
What Tariffs on China Could Mean for HVACR Distributors
If the 50% tariff goes into effect the minimum tariff on Chinese made goods would rise to 104% unless the already existing 20% and 34% tariffs are altered. Explore the latest data on Chinese HVAC exports in HARDI's latest Tariff Talks with Jake Miller episode.
Tariff Resources for HVACR Distributors
Navigating the tariff landscape is no small feat for HVACR distributors but staying informed and proactive can help mitigate the risks. HARDI’s new Tariff Tracker provides real-time updates and insights to help HARDI members and other HVACR professionals stay ahead of tariff developments.
Want to receive email alerts on tariff updates?
Alex Ayers
Alex Ayers is the Vice President of Government Affairs for Heating, Air-conditioning, & Refrigeration Distributors International. As a recovering political nerd and current policy wonk, Alex is HARDI’s primary lobbyist and regulatory expert. Growing up in Iowa, Alex was exposed early to local politics through the first in the nation Iowa Caucuses, participating as a county caucus delegate to develop the grassroots planks that go into creating the party platform. Since moving to Washington, DC, Alex has spent over a decade lobbying, publishing papers, and testifying in various policy areas, including taxes, energy, environment, agriculture, and economics. His research has been cited by organizations such as the Wall Street Journal, Forbes, and the Tax Foundation.
Expertise: HVACR Policy, Government Affairs, and Political Advocacy
Please contact events@hardinet.org to book Alex as a speaker at your next conference or event. Press Contacts - to request a quote or an interview, complete this form.
