White House Considers Cutting China Tariffs to Ease Trade Tensions
According to an April 23 Wall Street Journal report, President Trump is considering reducing the tariff rate on Chinese imports to 50-65%. While no final decision has been made, the administration is exploring a tiered approach, with lower tariffs on items not deemed a national security threat and higher tariffs on strategic products crucial to U.S. interests.
Key Points:
- The Trump administration may reduce tariffs on Chinese goods by more than half, potentially bringing them down to 50-65%.
- A tiered structure is under consideration, with 35% levies on items not seen as national security risks and higher rates for strategic goods.
- These potential tariff cuts are viewed as an effort to ease trade tensions and promote negotiations.
- China has expressed willingness to engage in trade talks, though it insists negotiations cannot proceed under continued U.S. threats.
Later on April 23, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said that the Trump administration will not unilaterally reduce tariffs imposed on China. "Let me be clear, there will be no unilateral reduction in tariffs against China," she said in an interview on Fox News. "The president has made it clear China needs to make a deal with the United States of America, and we are optimistic that will happen." She rejected the idea that Trump's position on tariffs on China has been softening.
NMMA continues to monitor these developments closely, advocating for policies that protect the interests of the recreational boating industry. A targeted and nuanced approach to trade policy, one that accounts for both domestic production and international market access, is essential for the industry’s continued growth.
As this situation evolves, NMMA will remain engaged with policymakers, advocating for measures that sustain the recreational boating industry. For more information or to discuss how trade policy is affecting your business, please contact NMMA Senior Director of Public Policy, Clay Crabtree, at [email protected].
Stay Updated on Trade Issues at the 2025 American Boating Congress
The 2025 American Boating Congress (ABC) will take place May 8–10 in Washington, D.C. This event will feature discussions on trade and other key issues impacting the boating industry. Members are encouraged to register and participate in conversations that directly impact their businesses.