China Raises Costs for US Tourists After Trump Tariffs: '104%
Source: Newsweek
Published Apr 10, 2025 at 11:55 AM EDT | Updated Apr 10, 2025 at 9:26 PM EDT
Footage has surfaced of businesses in China advertising a steep surcharge for American customers in response to President Donald Trump's dramatic tariff hike on Chinese imports. Newsweek reached out to the Chinese Foreign Ministry by email with a request for comment outside of office hours.
Why It Matters
Trump, who launched a trade war with Beijing during his first term, escalated tensions again this month—imposing an 84-percent blanket tariff on Chinese goods. That came on top of a 20-percent hike enacted in March, which he said was due to China's role in supplying chemicals used to make fentanyl.
The tariffs took effect April 9 after Beijing refused to withdraw a 34-percent retaliatory duty. Trump then raised the duty again to 125 percent, accusing China of a "lack of respect" for global trade norms. He also announced a temporary 90-day pause on reciprocal duties, although the baseline 10-percent rate for most other countries stays in effect.
What To Know
Videos uploaded to Chinese social media show businesses advertising a service charge for American customers—at the same rate as Trump's earlier tariff before it was raised again. A post, shared on social media platform Weibo, showed a jewelry store in Taiyuan, Shanxi Province, announcing the surcharge. Another image circulated from a hotel in Wuhan, Hubei Province. A pool hall in an unidentified city displayed a similar notice, accompanied by the English translation: "Starting from today, our store will charge a 104-percent service fee to American customers. If you have any questions, please consult the U.S. Embassy."
Read more: https://www.newsweek.com/china-american-tourist-prices-trump-us-tariffs-2057910
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those "lights" are not just for Christmas. People string and run them for every seasonal commemoration. So you can't even celebrate 45's birthda....errr... Flag Day or July 4th without paying an arm and a leg now! 
