2025 in Trade: A Timeline of Trump’s Tariff Wars

Throughout 2025, the Trump administration launched an aggressive expansion of U.S. tariffs, marking one of the most turbulent years for global trade in decades.

The year began with new import taxes aimed at America’s largest trading partners, Canada, Mexico, and China, quickly reviving trade tensions that had defined Trump’s earlier presidency. Steel and aluminum tariffs were raised to 25% worldwide, broadening measures first introduced in 2018.

In April, the administration escalated its approach with sweeping tariffs affecting nearly every country, an announcement that rattled financial markets and added uncertainty for businesses and consumers.

China faced the sharpest escalation, with U.S. and Chinese tariffs climbing above 100% as both sides traded retaliatory measures. The trade push expanded further with a 25% tariff on imported vehicles, disrupting global auto supply chains.

As the year continued, additional sector-specific tariffs were introduced, including higher duties on steel, aluminum, copper, and goods from countries such as Brazil and India.

The tariff campaign also faced legal challenges, with U.S. courts questioning whether the president exceeded his authority under emergency powers, though most tariffs remained in effect during appeals.

By the end of 2025, some tariffs were reduced or delayed amid rising prices, while the broader legal fight over Trump’s trade powers moved toward the Supreme Court.