Does the U.S.大幅 lowering tariffs mean Trump has backed down?

Many people were left confused after reading the joint statement. How exactly have China-U.S. tariffs been adjusted? What are the current tariff levels between the two countries? What key information does the statement reveal? First, the conclusion: The U.S. has eliminated 91% of its previously imposed additional tariffs and suspended implementation of its 24% 'reciprocal tariffs' for 90 days. As a result, the current U.S. 'reciprocal tariff' on Chinese goods stands at 10%. China, in turn, has also canceled or suspended some of its retaliatory tariffs. Additionally, China has suspended or canceled certain non-tariff countermeasures against the U.S. However, this round of adjustments covers only part of the tariffs each side has imposed. For instance, the U.S. tariffs imposed on China over fentanyl-related concerns—and China’s corresponding retaliatory tariffs—are not mentioned in the statement. A simple calculation shows that, under the current framework agreed upon during these economic and trade talks, the U.S. retains a 10% base tariff plus a separate 20% fentanyl-related tariff, while all other additional tariffs are suspended for 90 days. China likewise retains a 10% tariff, with others suspended. Notably, although both sides announced identical 115% reductions (a figure reflecting the scale of cuts relative to prior levels), the final effective tariff rates are actually unequal. For example, the U.S.’s 20% fentanyl-related tariff remains fully in force, as it was not addressed in the joint statement. Of course, China has separately announced two rounds of additional tariffs on certain U.S. imports this year: In February, it announced 15% tariffs on coal and liquefied natural gas, and 10% tariffs on crude oil, agricultural machinery, large-displacement automobiles, and pickup trucks; in March, it announced 15% tariffs on chicken, wheat, corn, and cotton, and 10% tariffs on sorghum, soybeans, pork, beef, aquatic products, fruits, vegetables, and dairy products—none of which fall within the scope of this latest tariff adjustment. Here’s an ultra-simplified comparison chart of the tariff adjustments: But note: This meeting established a '90-day suspension period', whose core purpose is to create breathing room for negotiations—to avoid 'embargo-style blockades' triggered by high tariffs and to respond to global supply-chain stability concerns. During these 90 days, both sides will continue consultations to determine whether the 24% tariff will ultimately be imposed. Thus, this agreement resembles a 'ceasefire' rather than a 'peace treaty'. Moreover, Trump explicitly stated, 'If no agreement is reached, we will revert to previous levels,' and the remaining 10% tariff serves as a bargaining chip—potentially reactivated in the future. Should negotiations fail to yield consensus within the 90-day window, the U.S. may reinstate the previously suspended 24% tariff, adding it to the retained 10% base rate; China’s tariffs on U.S. goods could likewise rebound accordingly. That said, the '90-day suspension period' does offer much-needed relief to cross-border e-commerce and export enterprises. • Win back orders: Proactively contact U.S. clients, using 'tariff elimination' as a compelling hook to reclaim lost orders. • Retain customers: Optimize cost structures and outperform competitors through efficiency and service—making clients reluctant to switch. • Prepare contingencies: Continue deepening market presence in Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America—don’t put all your eggs in one basket. As a leading digital tax compliance solutions provider for cross-border exporters, Qitian QuanShuiTong consistently supports stable foreign trade and promotes growth. Facing the severe challenges posed by the tariff war in China-U.S. import-export trade, under the guidance of the Nanjing Municipal Bureau of Commerce, Qitian QuanShuiTong launched the 'HuiXiang Cross-Border – Enterprise Global Expansion Public Service Platform'. Its inaugural release features two core functions: 'Two-Way Tariff Inquiry for Key Countries (Imports & Exports)' and 'Smart Inquiry for Tariff Exemptions/Exclusions Lists', empowering China-U.S. trade enterprises and service providers to instantly and conveniently check tariff imposition and exemption statuses for relevant products.

@Home furnishing enterprises: The U.S. has postponed imposing additional tariffs until 2027.

In fact, as early as September 2025, Trump signed an executive order imposing a 25% tariff on imported kitchen cabinets and upholstered furniture, which took effect in October. Under the original plan, these tariffs were scheduled to increase again in 2026—rising to 50% for kitchen cabinets and 30% for upholstered furniture. With this second round of tariff hikes imminent, why did Trump issue a tariff suspension announcement on New Year’s Eve—December 31? Industry analysis identifies two primary reasons behind this postponement: 1. Easing U.S. inflation and courting voter support U.S. voters remain persistently dissatisfied with continuously rising domestic prices. As essential consumer goods, home furnishings directly affect household living costs. Previously, industry groups such as the American Furniture Alliance had repeatedly protested the excessive tariff burden. Immediately following the announcement of the delay, U.S. furniture retailers’ stock prices surged sharply. 2. Strategic trade leverage—creating space for negotiations The official announcement noted constructive progress in bilateral discussions concerning trade reciprocity and national security issues related to timber product imports. Postponing the tariff hike thus helps foster a more conducive atmosphere for subsequent negotiations. As the world’s largest producer and exporter of upholstered furniture, China ships approximately 26% of its total furniture exports to the U.S., with wood-based furniture representing the dominant category among China’s timber product exports to the U.S. This postponement undoubtedly delivers short-term benefits to affected enterprises, buying them valuable time to adjust markets and production capacity. Yet it is crucial to recognize clearly: According to the policy wording, the tariff hike has merely been postponed—not canceled—and remains slated for possible implementation in 2027. More importantly, uncertainty surrounding U.S. foreign trade policy is a long-standing reality—especially for products related to timber, furniture, and cabinets. Enterprises must remain especially vigilant against national-security-related trade measures such as Section 232.

Trump Punts on Wind Turbine Tariffs, Allows 180 Days for Talks

19 hours ago

President Trump delayed tariffs on wind turbines and components for 180 days to pursue trade negotiations, while maintaining existing duties on metals like aluminum and steel. The move provides temporary relief to the wind energy sector amidst ongoing national security import investigations.

bloomberg

2026-07-23

Trump Announces Double-Digit Tariffs on 60 Countries Over Forced Labour Concerns

2026-08-23

Trump's Trade War with Canada: A Timeline of How We Got Here

2026-08-25

From honey to hockey sticks, Trump’s trade war with Canada hikes tariffs on a long list of goods

2026-08-27

Any US Trade Deal Must Ensure Robust Canadian Auto Sector, Ambassador Says

2026-08-30

Trump's New Tariffs on Canada Raise Legal Questions Over 1930 Statute