US proposes tariffs on $50 billion in Chinese imports

The Trump administration is recommending 25 percent tariffs on $50 billion in Chinese imports amid strong opposition from Chinese and U.S. business groups. 

Workers are busy assembling electric fans at production lines of Airmate’s factory in Jiujiang, Jiangxi Province. Airmate focuses on small home appliances that will be exported to Europe and the United States. [Photo: IC]

The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative has issued a list targeting 1,300 Chinese products, including industrial robots and telecommunications equipment. But the proposed tariffs wouldn't take effect before a public comment period ends May 11.

U.S. President Donald Trump announced in March that he would impose tariffs on about $50 billion in Chinese imports on grounds that Chinese policies force U.S. companies to transfer technology and intellectual property to Chinese companies, a USTR statement said.

The move is the latest in a series of aggressive actions the administration has taken to combat what it calls unfair trade practices by China and other countries. American businesses worry that the administration's moves will draw painful retaliatory sanctions.

With contributions from AP, CGTN, Xinhua