On October 17, Trump was interviewed by Fox News and once again discussed the issue of tariffs on China. There are two keywords that are particularly worth noting: first, he is prepared to impose a 100% tariff on China as an "additional tariff"; second, he also believes this tariff is "not sustainable." How should we understand these two keywords?

First, previously, the outside world believed that the 100% tariff that Trump threatened was simply raising the current tariff to 100%. However, in this interview, Trump clearly stated that what he intends to do is to add an additional 100% on top of the existing tariffs on China. This number is extremely high. Currently, the US tariff on China is 30%, and after the postponement period ending on November 12, it will return to 54%. If another 100% is added, then the tariff level on China will be increased to 154%. This is equivalent to returning to the situation before May, which has lost all economic significance, and trade between the two sides would almost certainly not be possible anymore.

Second, in this interview, Trump also rarely mentioned that such a tariff is "unsustainable," which seems to indicate a softer tone. In fact, this also shows that the so-called 100% tariff threat is still one of Trump's "stunt" actions, used to increase the US's negotiating leverage on China. What he wants is simply for China to relax its control over rare earths and expand its imports of American soybeans. However, whether this strategy is still effective is a big question mark.

In fact, from a series of confrontations between China and the US since April, it can be seen that China definitely does not accept America's approach. What China wants to do is to eliminate the strategic fantasy of the US constantly using tariffs for "extortion." To fight a long-term war and a protracted war, to exchange time for space, and to re-establish a new model of communication and interaction between China and the US. It is not only for China's own interests but also for the interests of other countries around the world. We cannot allow the US to use its economic and financial hegemony to coerce the entire world. Instead, we need to learn to truly engage with the world based on mutual respect and equality.

Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1846242442723400/

Statement: The article represents the views of the author.