#TrumpTariffs Donald Trump's Approach to Tariffs, particularly during his second term which begins in January 2025, was characterized by aggressive and extensive increases aimed at protecting American industry and addressing the trade deficit. These policies had significant economic and geopolitical impacts.

Key Events in Trump's Tariff Policy

Initial Tariff Levels and Escalation

Following his inauguration in January 2025, the average effective tariff rate in the USA was 2.5%. By April 2025, this rate had increased to an estimated 27%, the highest level in over a century, due to the so-called "tariffs for liberation day".

Trump escalated the trade war between the USA and China by raising the base tariffs on Chinese imported goods to 145%. China responded by imposing a minimum tariff of 125% on American goods and export restrictions on rare earths.

Tariffs were also imposed on Canada and Mexico (25% on both countries), but later exemptions were granted for goods meeting USMCA conditions.