China Not Exempt from Tariffs — “They Treat Us the Worst,” Says Presiden

China Not Exempt from Tariffs — “They Treat Us the Worst,” Says President Donald Trump
Washington, April 14, 2025:

U.S. President Donald Trump made it clear on Sunday that Chinese products — especially high-tech items like electronics — will not be exempt from the reciprocal tariffs imposed by the United States.

Speaking to reporters, Trump stated, “No one is getting away with unfair trade deficits — especially not China, which treats us the worst. We will not be held hostage by any country.”

His remarks followed a Friday notice by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, which listed certain electronic goods — such as semiconductors, laptops, and smartphones — as eligible for temporary tariff relief. China welcomed the move as a “positive small step” but also urged for a complete rollback of the tariffs.

However, Trump’s latest comments shattered that optimism, asserting that those products are still subject to the existing 20% tariff, and have merely been reclassified under a different tariff category.

While speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump said that new semiconductor tariffs would be announced next week and would take effect shortly thereafter. He also hinted at possible flexibility for certain companies.

U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick clarified that the current tariff relief for high-tech goods is temporary, and that a separate semiconductor tariff plan will be rolled out within one to two months.

He said, “Trump is now saying these items are exempt from reciprocal tariffs, but they fall under a separate semiconductor tariff that’s coming soon.”