Trump Announces 90-Day Tariff Pause as Global Mark...

Trump Announces 90-Day Tariff Pause as Global Markets Wobble

Oscar J Jeke- Zim Now Reporter

Facing mounting pressure from a global market downturn, U.S. President Donald Trump has announced a 90-day pause on high reciprocal tariffs for most countries, offering a temporary reduction to a 10% tariff on imports—excluding China.

The announcement, made via social media, came just days after the White House imposed steep tariffs in a move aimed at rebalancing global trade. Trump defended the initial measures as a response to what he described as “unfair practices” by China, declaring a 125% tariff on Chinese goods effective immediately.

“Based on the lack of respect that China has shown to the world’s markets... I am hereby raising the tariff charged to China to 125%, effective immediately,” Trump posted. In contrast, he praised other countries for their restraint, noting that over 75 nations had opened dialogue with the U.S. without retaliating.

“In light of that cooperation,” Trump wrote, “I have authorised a 90-day PAUSE, and a substantially lowered reciprocal tariff during this period, of 10%, also effective immediately.”

The previous tariff regime, unveiled last week, had set duties as high as 18% on exports from countries like Zimbabwe. In response, President Emmerson Mnangagwa pledged to remove all tariffs on U.S. imports, signaling a willingness to de-escalate trade tensions.

U.S. Treasury Secretary Bessent reinforced the strategic nature of the move during a press briefing, claiming China had “fallen into a trap” set by the White House. “They responded. They have shown themselves to the world to be the bad actors,” Bessent said. “It wasn't a hard message. Don’t retaliate. Things will turn out well.”

The move marks a significant shift in tone as Washington seeks to stabilize volatile markets and maintain relations with key allies and trading partners. However, the sharp tariff hike on Chinese goods signals continued economic hostilities between the world’s two largest economies.

Analysts say the 90-day window may provide an opportunity for renewed diplomatic engagement, but caution that uncertainty remains high.

“Markets need clarity, not just pauses,” said Carla Jenkins, a senior trade analyst. “If this is a tactical retreat, the next move better be a diplomatic one.”