Tariff war: Trump administration could drop tariffs on China to 50–65% amid pending talks with Beijing, says report

The Trump administration is considering a significant reduction in tariffs on Chinese imports, potentially bringing current rates down from 145% to a range between 50% and 65%, a news report stated on Wednesday (April 23) citing a source familiar with the matter.

The move is contingent on pending trade negotiations with Beijing.

The development follows a report by The Wall Street Journal, which cited people familiar with the matter, saying they are exploring tariff reductions as part of efforts to de-escalate tensions between the United States and China.

The Journal noted: “China tariffs could come down to between 50% and 65%,” citing a White House official.

Trump: Tariffs ‘won’t be that high’

Speaking on Tuesday, President Trump signaled optimism about reaching a deal with China that could result in substantially lower import duties. “It won’t be that high,” Trump said when asked about the 145% tariff rate. “It won’t be anywhere near that. If they don’t make a deal, we’ll set the deal.”

Tiered approach under consideration

According to the Journal, the Trump administration is also weighing a tiered tariff system, similar to a proposal floated by the House China committee in 2023. This approach would apply:

• 35% tariffs on goods not considered a threat to US national security
• 100%+ tariffs on strategic items, such as semiconductors and key raw materials

This phased model would roll out over five years and aims to balance economic competitiveness with national security.

Although deliberations are ongoing, insiders caution that no formal decision has been made, and several options remain under review. The discussions reflect the administration’s attempt to strike a new balance.

Trump signals hope for 'fair deal' with China

Trump expressed optimism about reaching a “fair deal” with China on trade, even as tensions remain high following a dramatic escalation in tariffs between the two countries this month.

Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump said, “We are going to have a fair deal with China. It's going to be fair.” He emphasiz]sed that negotiations are still underway, adding, “Everything's active,” when asked if there were direct talks ongoing with Chinese leaders.

Tariffs surge amid retaliatory measures

The Trump administration’s latest round of tariffs has raised the average rate on Chinese imports to 145%. In response, China retaliated with tariffs on US exports totaling 125%, further intensifying a trade war that has spooked markets and global supply chains.

While the US imposed sweeping tariffs, it temporarily exempted several key technology sectors—including smartphones, computers, and semiconductors—from the harshest 125% reciprocal tariffs. However, a blanket 20% tariff remains in place on Chinese goods, citing China’s alleged role in the fentanyl crisis. Trump officials have said these exemptions may be short-lived.

More countries eek trade talks

Trump also touted broader trade developments, saying that over 100 countries have expressed interest in trade negotiations with the United States following the announcement of universal tariffs earlier this month. Of these, 18 countries have already submitted formal proposals.

“Everyone's going to be happy, but we're no longer going to be the country that's ripped off by every country in the world,” Trump asserted, positioning the administration’s tough tariff stance as part of a wider push to rebalance global trade in America’s favor.