**US President Trump Raises Tariffs on China, Imposes 10% Tariff on Ukraine**
In a move aimed at strengthening his country’s trade position, US President Donald Trump has announced significant changes to the country’s tariff policy. On April 9, Trump raised tariffs on China from 54% to 104%, and in response, Beijing imposed an 84% tariff on US goods.
The escalation of tensions between the two economic superpowers is not surprising, given their long-standing trade disputes. However, what is notable is that Trump’s new policy also targets other major trading partners, including Ukraine. The country has been hit with a blanket 10% tariff on its exports, which could have severe consequences for Kyiv.
**Why Ukraine Matters**
Ukraine’s economy has already been struggling due to the ongoing conflict in Eastern Ukraine and Russia’s annexation of Crimea. The imposition of tariffs by Trump may deepen this imbalance, as the country’s trade with the US has been declining in recent years. In 2023, Ukrainian exports to the US totaled just $874 million, while imports from the US reached $3.4 billion.
The international community is closely watching the developments between the US and China, as well as the implications for other countries. The EU has already backed trade countermeasures against the US in response to Washington’s recent tariffs on steel and aluminum imports.
While some countries may view Trump’s policy as a bid to protect American jobs, others see it as a form of protectionism that could have far-reaching consequences globally. Russia, Belarus, North Korea, and Cuba were notably excluded from Trump’s new tariff policy, sparking speculation about potential alliances and trade arrangements between these nations.
**A 90-Day Pause?**
Trump has announced a 90-day pause on tariffs for most countries, with a substantially lowered reciprocal tariff of just 10%. This move may be seen as an attempt to ease tensions with trading partners, but it remains unclear whether this will have a lasting impact or simply delay further conflict.
**What’s Next?**
As trade relations between the US and China continue to deteriorate, other countries are likely to face increasing pressure from Washington. Ukraine, in particular, may struggle to adapt to its new reality under Trump’s tariff policy. The coming months will see significant developments in global trade, with far-reaching consequences for economies around the world.
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