US to keep 55% tariffs on Chinese imports despite new Trade Deal

Despite a new trade agreement with China, the U.S. will maintain its 55% import tariffs, says Commerce Secretary Lutnick.

The U.S. Secretary of Commerce, Howard Lutnick, announced that existing tariffs on Chinese imports will remain unchanged even after a new trade deal is finalized. He made the remarks during an interview with CNBC on Wednesday, June 11.

Lutnick confirmed that the U.S. will continue to enforce its 55% tariff on goods imported from China. This comes despite recent negotiations between Washington and Beijing aimed at stabilizing trade relations.

Earlier that day, President Donald Trump declared that the two countries had reached a framework agreement to reestablish a trade truce. The deal outlines key steps both sides will take to ease tensions and restart constructive engagement.

Previously, China had condemned the United States’ increasing export restrictions on chips and other technologies, while the U.S. had protested China’s export limits on rare earth elements, which are expected to significantly restrict global supply.

As part of the new understanding, China has agreed to lift export restrictions on certain rare earth minerals and critical industrial components. These materials are essential to global manufacturing, particularly in the tech and energy sectors.

However, the U.S. has chosen not to offer tariff relief in exchange. According to Lutnick, the tariffs serve as a strategic economic measure and will remain in place for the foreseeable future.

Lutnick also noted that China has pledged to boost its trade volume with the U.S. and engage in further discussions to improve bilateral commercial ties. Meanwhile, the U.S. is preparing for a fresh round of trade talks with other countries, starting next week.

Analysts say the continuation of high tariffs signals Washington’s tough stance on trade, even amid diplomatic overtures. While the deal may reduce immediate friction, long-term tensions between the world’s two largest economies are likely to persist.

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