Trump accused of ‘Deceptive’ tariff calculations – Asian economies deny claims of high import taxes
By finnheartley // 2025-04-07
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  • Trump’s claims of 50–90% tariffs on U.S. goods by China, Taiwan, and Vietnam were debunked—actual rates are under 5%, with figures based on trade deficits, not real tariffs.
  • Asian leaders and media accused the U.S. of "economic sabotage," arguing Trump’s reciprocal tariffs mislead by conflating trade imbalances with import taxes.
  • Traders warn of supply chain disruptions and financial ruin, with critics like Mike Adams calling the policy a "crazy deception" risking a global trade war.
  • Some nations, like Taiwan and Vietnam, offered tariff removals for U.S. relief, but China may retaliate with export bans or military tensions near Taiwan.
  • Stocks and commodities plunged, with fears of long-term instability. Analysts warn of "economic nuclear winter," while the administration doubles down on its high-stakes strategy.
The Trump administration is facing intense backlash after allegations emerged that its newly imposed "reciprocal tariffs" misrepresented trade deficits as actual tariffs. Asian business leaders and media outlets have disputed President Trump’s claims that China, Taiwan, and Vietnam impose tariffs as high as 50–90% on U.S. goods, revealing that actual rates are typically under 5%.

The Controversy Unfolds

In a fiery address last week, Trump announced sweeping tariffs on imports from multiple nations, framing them as a response to what he called "unfair" trade practices. He presented a chart claiming China imposed an average 67% tariff on U.S. goods, while Vietnam allegedly charged 90% and Taiwan 64%. However, Asian exporters and financial analysts quickly debunked these figures. Investigations by regional media and trade experts revealed that Trump’s calculations were based not on actual tariff rates but on trade imbalances—the difference between the value of a country’s imports and exports. For example, Trump’s claimed 67% tariff on Chinese goods was derived by dividing the U.S.-China trade deficit (295 billion) by total U.S. imports from China (439 billion). Critics argue this is a gross misrepresentation, as tariffs are legally defined as taxes on imports, not trade imbalances.

Global Outcry and Economic Fallout

The policy has triggered panic among international traders, with exporters warning of financial ruin and supply chain disruptions. Mike Adams, host of Brighteon Broadcast News and an initial defender of the tariffs, reversed his stance, calling the move a "crazy deception" that risks sparking a global trade war. "Trump is charging these countries punitive tariffs while falsely claiming they’re already doing the same to us," Adams said. "It’s destabilizing the entire global trade system." Asian business leaders expressed outrage, with Taiwanese and Vietnamese media accusing the U.S. of "economic sabotage." Many fear the tariffs could force layoffs and factory closures, particularly in export-dependent economies.

Negotiations and Potential Resolutions

Despite the uproar, Adams suggested the tariffs may be a short-term negotiation tactic. Reports indicate at least 50 nations have contacted the White House seeking relief, with Taiwan and Vietnam reportedly offering to eliminate their own tariffs in exchange for the U.S. dropping its new levies. However, China appears poised for a prolonged standoff. Analysts warn that Beijing could retaliate with export bans on critical materials like rare earth minerals or even escalate military tensions around Taiwan.

Market Chaos and Long-Term Risks

The announcement has already sent shockwaves through financial markets, with stocks, commodities, and cryptocurrencies plunging. Precious metals like silver and gold initially dipped but are expected to rebound as investors seek safe havens. Critics, including billionaire investor Bill Ackman, warn the policy could trigger an "economic nuclear winter," while Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick insists the administration will remain steadfast.

Conclusion: A High-Stakes Gamble

Trump’s tariff strategy—whether a bold negotiation play or a miscalculation—has exposed deep vulnerabilities in global trade. If unresolved, the fallout could accelerate economic instability, bank failures, and even geopolitical conflict. For now, businesses and investors brace for volatility, as the world waits to see whether Trump’s gamble will force concessions—or backfire spectacularly. Watch the April 07 episode of "Brighteon Broadcast News" as Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, talks about how to survive the market meltdown… reject the panic and seize the opportunities. This video is from the Health Ranger Report channel on Brighteon.com.

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Trump imposes 25% tariff on nations buying Venezuelan oil Trump floats tariff reduction for China to secure TikTok deal Indian refiners seek alternatives to Russian oil after Trump tariff threat Sources include: Brighteon.com
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