Trump Delays Tariffs on China 90 Days Spikes Global Trade Tensions 17-Point Approval Gap

President Donald J. Trump announced revised U.S. tariff policies on July 27, 2025, introducing significant adjustments targeting China while delaying the implementation of high tariffs on certain goods for 90 days. The new measures, effective August 1, 2025, emphasize punitive actions against China, aligning with the administration’s long-standing focus on addressing perceived unfair trade practices. The 90-day extension aims to create space for negotiations with trading partners, though China remains the central focus of the updated framework [1].

The administration described the policy shift as part of a broader strategy to leverage tariffs for securing favorable trade terms and protecting domestic industries. However, critics argue the approach risks escalating global trade tensions. European Union (EU) officials have expressed concerns over the potential for retaliatory measures, particularly after Trump outlined threats to impose “heavy tariffs” on EU goods. While no such tariffs have yet materialized, the EU is reportedly coordinating responses to mitigate economic fallout [2].

Financial markets reacted cautiously to the announcement, with heightened scrutiny observed in both traditional and cryptocurrency sectors. Historical precedents, such as the 2018–2020 trade war, suggest that extended tariff disputes can trigger short-term volatility in risk assets. Analysts noted that major cryptocurrencies like BTC and ETH may experience similar fluctuations amid heightened economic uncertainty, though direct spillover effects remain unconfirmed [3].

Public sentiment toward Trump’s tariff policies remains divided. Recent surveys indicate a 17-point gap between approval and disapproval of his tariff management, with Republicans maintaining a seven-point lead over Democrats in perceived trustworthiness on the issue. This partisan divide underscores the political dimensions of the trade strategy, as the administration balances economic and geopolitical priorities [3].

The 90-day delay in high tariffs provides a critical window for diplomatic engagement but also highlights the administration’s reliance on tariff adjustments as a political lever. While the focus on China aligns with U.S. trade priorities, the timing raises questions about the broader implications for U.S.-China-EU dynamics. The absence of concrete details on negotiated terms leaves uncertainty about the policy’s long-term impact on global markets.

Sources:

[1] [Doug Kass - TheStreet](https://pro.thestreet.com/dougs-daily-diary/2025-07-28)

[2] [United States–European Union relations - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States%E2%80%93European_Union_relations)

[3] [Uncategorized | This Just In… From Franklin, WI](https://thisjustinfromfranklinwi.com/category/uncategorized/)