US President Donald Trump has announced a 25% tariff on countries trading with Iran, a decision that could significantly impact China, a major partner of both Iran and the US. The announcement on Truth Social asserts that this tariff is effective immediately and aims to be a final measure.

The White House hasn't said how this tariff will be enforced, which countries will be affected, or if it will apply to services. The announcement follows tensions as the US considers military intervention in Iran due to ongoing anti-government protests in the country.

China, which has strong trade ties with Iran, has responded swiftly. The Chinese embassy in Washington declared firm opposition to the “illicit unilateral sanctions” and stated that China would take all necessary actions to protect its interests. The move could elevate tariffs on goods from China to at least 45%, up from the current 20%.

China's trade data shows $6.2 billion worth of goods were exported to Iran and $2.85 billion imported within the first 11 months of 2025, excluding oil transactions. Analysts believe that China facilitates over 90% of Iran's oil trade through intermediaries.

This decision comes amid a backdrop of tense trade relations between the US and China. A significant trade war last year saw tariffs on Chinese products reach 145%. Meanwhile, Trump's administration has also targeted other countries, including doubling tariffs on Indian goods due to its purchase of Russian oil.

The Supreme Court is currently reviewing Trump's tariff strategy, which uses the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. Should the Court rule against Trump, he may lose the ability to impose tariffs, and the US could be liable to refund $130 billion in tariff revenues, reported CNN.

Key Takeaways

• Trump imposes an immediate 25% tariff on nations trading with Iran.

• China opposes the move, threatening retaliatory measures.

• Supreme Court decision may impact Trump's tariff powers soon.

  

Adapted by ASEAN Now from CNN 2026-01-13

 

 

There goes the China truce, right out of the window. Add to that what he did in Venezuela, and those Chinese rare earths shipments and soybean orders don't look promising anymore.

Love it!! Standby for the China based posters to start wigging out, which is ironic as they frantically claim Trump tariffs (unlike any other US imposed tariff in history) is " just a tax on Americans".

🤣

3 minutes ago, SunnyinBangrak said:

Love it!! Standby for the China based posters to start wigging out, which is ironic as they frantically claim Trump tariffs (unlike any other US imposed tariff in history) is " just a tax on Americans".

🤣

BS as usual! Like any other tariffs in the US or elsewhere, Trump tariffs are paid by those who receive the goods.

Try to order something from a tariffed country and check if someone else is paying the tariffs for you! 🤣

Obviously an implusive ill-thought-out reaction with no clear strategy to slap the 25% tariffs on import to US. Meanwhile trade between Iran and their trading partners will go unabated and US citizens will have to eat the tariffs once again. Russia will finally be slapped with the 25% tariff which is an own goal by Trump to his buddy. China will have reason to retaliate on soya beans and raw earth minerals. Trump shoot himself on his foot like he always does.