Starting from 12:01 AM on April 9 2025 (Eastern Time), or 11:01 AM Vietnam time, the United States officially implemented a new retaliatory tariff policy on imports from 86 countries and territories. This marks a firm step in the Trump administration’s protectionist trade strategy.
The tariff rates vary widely, ranging from 11% to 84%, depending on the specific trade partner. China is the hardest hit, facing a total tariff rate of 104% due to the combination of retaliatory duties and previously imposed additional tariffs. Cambodia and Lesotho are also among the countries subject to high tariffs, at 49% and 50% respectively. Vietnam is also affected, with a 46% tariff rate.
This new tax policy follows an earlier move on April 5, when Washington began collecting a base tariff of 10% on imported goods. In the same context, President Trump also announced tighter tax measures on the pharmaceutical sector, aiming to pressure companies to bring manufacturing back to the U.S.
Notably, nearly 70 countries have proactively reached out to the U.S. to initiate negotiations. In response, President Trump instructed his trade advisory team to establish separate bilateral agreements, paving the way for a new network of trade negotiations.
Observers see this move as a strong signal of Trump’s determination to reduce the trade deficit and revive domestic manufacturing. However, the broad application of these tariffs also raises concerns about potential retaliatory measures and escalating tensions in international trade relations.
SOURCE: CNBC
