Cover Story: Trump 2.0 Means Reboot of Aggressive Tariff Policy Toward China

His second-term pledge of 60% tax on Chinese imports sets up new confrontational stance

At around noon on Jan. 20, Donald J. Trump will once again stand outside the U.S. Capitol, place his hand on a Bible and recite the oath of office, this time becoming the 47th president of the United States. His remarkable comeback, punctuated by a resounding electoral victory on Nov. 5, marks the first time in 132 years a former president reclaimed the White House after a term away. But as the 78-year-old Republican prepares to lead a deeply divided nation, all eyes are on the critical decisions shaping his second-term agenda—starting with the assembly of a cabinet and the rollout of aggressive trade policies toward China.

Trump’s victory was amplified by Republicans regaining control of the Senate and likely controlling the House of Representatives, granting him a rare alignment of executive and legislative power to push his agenda.

Donald Trump speaks during an election night event at the West Palm Beach Convention Center in West Palm Beach, Florida, on Nov. 6, 2024.

This Republican consolidation paves the way for Trump to deliver on a wide array of promises, from raising tariffs to reshaping U.S. foreign relations. Analysts predict the next two years will be pivotal in redefining America’s domestic and international posture as Trump has the political capital to enact sweeping changes without the gridlock that marked much of his first term.

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