Fact Check: Did trump pause the tarrifs?

Did Trump Pause the Tariffs?

On April 9, 2025, President Donald Trump announced a 90-day pause on tariffs affecting most trading partners while simultaneously increasing tariffs on China to 125%. This announcement has generated significant media coverage and speculation about its implications for the economy and international trade relations.

What We Know

1. Announcement Details: Trump stated that he would pause tariffs on over 75 trading partners who had not retaliated against U.S. tariffs. However, he also raised tariffs on China significantly, which has been a focal point of his trade policy 13456.

2. Market Reaction: Following the announcement, U.S. stock markets experienced a surge, with the S&P 500 reportedly rising by 7% shortly after the news broke. This indicates a strong market response to the perceived easing of trade tensions with most countries, despite the increased tariffs on China 246.

3. Tariff Structure: The existing 10% baseline tariff on all imports into the U.S. will remain in effect during the 90-day pause. This means that while some tariffs are paused, a general tariff will still apply 910.

4. Context of Tariffs: The tariffs were initially implemented as part of Trump's strategy to address the U.S. trade deficit, particularly with China, which was reported to be $436 billion in 2023 7. The pause may reflect a response to economic pressures and concerns about a potential recession 4.

Analysis

Source Reliability

• NPR: Known for its journalistic integrity, NPR provides balanced reporting and is generally considered a reliable source. The articles referenced provide factual accounts of the announcement and its implications 12.

• NBC News: As a major news outlet, NBC has a reputation for thorough reporting. Their coverage aligns with other sources, confirming the details of the tariff pause and the increase on China 3.

• Axios: This outlet is known for its concise reporting style and often includes analysis on the implications of news events. Their article highlights the market reaction and the broader economic context, which adds depth to the reporting 4.

• CBS News and The Hill: Both outlets provide timely updates on political and economic news. Their reports corroborate the key details of the tariff announcement and its immediate effects on the markets 56.

• Forbes: While generally reliable, Forbes can sometimes lean towards business interests, which may introduce a slight bias in economic reporting. However, their coverage of the tariff announcement appears factual and aligns with other sources 10.

Conflicts of Interest

None of the sources reviewed appear to have overt conflicts of interest regarding the reporting of this specific claim. However, it is essential to consider that media outlets may have underlying biases based on their audience and ownership, which can influence how they present economic news.

Methodology and Evidence

The evidence presented in the articles primarily consists of direct quotes from Trump and reactions from the stock market. While the immediate market response is a useful indicator of investor sentiment, it does not provide a comprehensive view of the long-term economic implications of the tariff changes. Additional data on trade volume, economic forecasts, and expert analyses would be beneficial to fully understand the ramifications of this policy shift.

Conclusion

Verdict: True

The evidence confirms that President Trump did announce a 90-day pause on tariffs for over 75 trading partners while simultaneously increasing tariffs on China. This conclusion is supported by multiple reliable sources, including NPR, NBC News, and Axios, which reported on the announcement and its immediate effects on the stock market.

However, it is important to note that while the announcement itself is factual, the long-term implications of this tariff pause remain uncertain. The market's positive reaction may not necessarily reflect sustained economic benefits, as the overall tariff structure, including the existing baseline tariffs, will still apply. Additionally, the context surrounding the announcement—such as economic pressures and the ongoing trade relationship with China—adds complexity to the situation.

Readers should also be aware that the evidence primarily relies on media reports and direct statements from Trump, which may not encompass all aspects of the economic landscape. As such, it is advisable for individuals to critically evaluate information and consider multiple perspectives when assessing the impact of such policy changes.

Sources

1. NPR. "Trump will pause tariffs for 90 days, but not for China." NPR
2. NPR. "U.S. stocks soar after Trump pauses tariffs except for China." NPR
3. NBC News. "Trump announces 90-day pause on tariffs for all trading partners except ..." NBC News
4. Axios. "Trump pauses reciprocal tariffs for 90 days for everyone but China." Axios
5. CBS News. "Trump announces 90-day pause on some tariffs." CBS News
6. The Hill. "Trump announces pause in tariffs; markets jump." The Hill
7. Scripps News. "Tariff reversal: Trump announces 90-day pause on 'reciprocal' duties." Scripps News
8. CNBC. "Trump says he reversed tariffs because people were 'a little ...'" CNBC
9. USA Today. "Trump halts targeted tariffs for 90 days but hikes levies on ..." USA Today
10. Forbes. "Trump Enacts 90-Day Pause On Tariffs — Except On China." Forbes