President Trump has signaled his attention to enact strict protectionist measures against China in the coming week, reports the Wall Street Journal, making good on his previous threats of $50 billion in additional tariffs on Chinese imports.
The president is due to meet on Thursday with the White House’s senior trade advisers and treasury representatives to finalise plans. Given this week’s diplomatic events, however, officials say that Trump may still change his mind on the duties as the US will need China’s help in arranging a viable peace deal with North Korea.
The $50 billion figure was first proposed in April, with the products targeted pertaining to China’s manufacturing and technological sectors. The final hit list was expected by Friday, but its constituents may change during a public comment period, the White House said.