Trump Administration Pauses Global Tariffs for 90 Days—China Excluded

Washington, D.C., April 10, 2025 — Amid mounting global criticism and domestic backlash, U.S. President Donald Trump has announced a 90-day suspension of newly imposed reciprocal tariffs on most countries — except China. The move is being viewed as a strategic recalibration of Trump’s aggressive trade stance, particularly in light of recent market volatility and pressure from major business leaders.

Market Reaction: Wall Street Surges

Following the announcement, U.S. stock markets soared, with the S&P 500 closing up 9.5%, marking its best trading day since October 2008. The Dow Jones Industrial Average and Nasdaq also registered significant gains, fueled by investor optimism over a potential easing of global trade tensions.

According to a report by The New York Times, Trump’s partial reversal was welcomed across Wall Street, offering a temporary sigh of relief to businesses and consumers worried about rising import costs.

China Remains Targeted: Tariff Raised to 125%

Despite the 90-day moratorium for other nations, China was explicitly excluded from the suspension. In fact, tariffs on Chinese exports were increased to 125%, following Beijing’s retaliatory move to impose 84% duties on U.S. goods.

The White House clarified that this decision stems from China’s failure to negotiate and its aggressive trade retaliation. A spokesperson stated that the suspension would not apply to Canada and Mexico, but tariffs on their goods would remain at a reduced 10% rate.

Trump: “People Got a Little Out of Line”

Responding to questions about the sudden shift in policy, Trump remarked, “I felt people got a little out of line. But nothing is over yet. We’ve received tremendous enthusiasm from more than 75 countries willing to strike a deal.” He added that the suspension is part of a broader strategic move and not a sign of policy retreat.

Domestic Pressure: Musk and Ackman Urged Reconsideration

Trump’s decision follows strong appeals from influential voices in the U.S. business community:

• Elon Musk, a longtime Trump ally, publicly urged reconsideration of the tariff escalation, citing harm to U.S. innovation and global partnerships.

• Billionaire investor Bill Ackman also called for a temporary pause, warning of economic overreach and urging the White House to refocus on negotiation.

What This Means for Global Trade

• 75+ countries are reportedly in talks for mutually beneficial trade agreements.

• China, however, remains in the crosshairs, with no immediate prospects of tariff relief.

• The 90-day pause gives the administration time to restructure trade talks while calming domestic and global markets.

Conclusion:
While the suspension marks a temporary reprieve for U.S. trade partners, the exclusion of China signals that the trade war is far from over. Analysts suggest that this calculated move may be aimed at rallying international support while isolating China in a shifting global economic landscape.