Fact Check: Tariffs on Chinese goods will be 157% in May

The Claim: "Tariffs on Chinese goods will be 157% in May"

Introduction

The claim that tariffs on Chinese goods will reach 157% in May has emerged amidst ongoing discussions about U.S.-China trade relations and tariff policies. This assertion raises questions about its accuracy and the implications of such a significant tariff rate on international trade and economic relations.

What We Know

1. Current Tariff Rates: As of early April 2025, tariffs on certain Chinese goods have been reported to be as high as 135% on average, according to the Peterson Institute for International Economics 10. This figure reflects a combination of existing tariffs and additional levies imposed in response to trade disputes.

2. Recent Announcements: The U.S. government has made various announcements regarding tariffs, including a fact sheet from the White House detailing tariffs on imports from China, which have fluctuated over time due to ongoing negotiations and policy changes 27.

3. Specific Tariff Increases: Reports indicate that tariffs on specific categories of goods, such as electric vehicles and certain technology products, have seen significant increases, with some reaching rates of 100% or more 69. However, there is no official document confirming a 157% tariff rate on all Chinese goods.

4. Chinese Response: In response to U.S. tariffs, China has also adjusted its tariffs on U.S. goods, with reports indicating an increase to 125% on certain imports from the U.S. as of April 2025 10.

Analysis

The claim of a 157% tariff on Chinese goods in May lacks direct support from credible sources. Here are several points to consider:

1. Source Reliability: The primary sources of information regarding tariffs are government announcements and reputable economic analyses. The White House and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) provide official updates on tariff rates, but the specific claim of 157% does not appear in their recent communications 137. The Peterson Institute, while a respected think tank, does not explicitly support the 157% figure but rather notes an average of 135% 10.

2. Context of Tariff Increases: Tariff rates can vary significantly depending on the product category and the ongoing trade negotiations. The claim may stem from confusion regarding the cumulative effect of multiple tariffs applied to different products rather than a blanket rate applicable to all goods from China.

3. Potential Bias: Some sources, such as political statements from the Trump administration, may have inherent biases reflecting specific political agendas. This could lead to exaggerated claims about tariff rates to support policy positions 27.

4. Methodological Concerns: The methodology used to calculate average tariffs can be complex, involving various product categories and exemptions. It is essential to scrutinize how these averages are derived and whether they reflect the reality of tariffs that importers face.

5. Lack of Specificity: The claim lacks specificity regarding which goods would be subject to a 157% tariff. Without clear delineation, it is challenging to assess the validity of the claim comprehensively.

Conclusion

Verdict: False

The claim that tariffs on Chinese goods will reach 157% in May is unsupported by credible evidence. Current reports indicate that average tariffs on certain Chinese goods are approximately 135%, with no official documentation confirming a 157% rate applicable to all goods. The assertion appears to stem from misunderstandings about the nature of tariff increases and the complexities involved in calculating average rates across different product categories.

It is important to note that while tariffs can fluctuate based on ongoing negotiations and specific product categories, the lack of a clear and official source for the 157% figure undermines its validity. Additionally, the potential for bias in political statements and the complexity of tariff calculations further complicate the landscape of U.S.-China trade relations.

Readers should remain aware of the limitations in the available evidence and the potential for misinformation in discussions about tariffs. Critical evaluation of information is essential for understanding the nuances of trade policies and their implications.

Sources

1. Amendment to Reciprocal Tariffs and Updated Duties as Applied to Low Value Imports from the People's Republic of China. White House
2. Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Imposes Tariffs on Imports from Canada, Mexico and China. White House
3. Official CBP Statement On Tariffs. U.S. Customs and Border Protection
4. China Tariffs (Last Updated March 6, 2025). HTS
5. Notice of Modification: China's Acts, Policies and Practices. Federal Register
6. Section 301 Modification Determination. USTR
7. Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Declares National Emergency. White House
8. How Much Are Tariffs on Chinese Goods? It’s Trickier Than You Think. The New York Times
9. China–United States trade war. Wikipedia
10. China raises duties on US goods to 125%. Reuters