Vaping Devices Imported From China Targeted By U.S. Tariffs

Earlier this year, Washington has said it would implement tariffs on $34 billion of Chinese imports. In response to this Beijing has vowed to retaliate by doing the same thing locally. Implementation of the tariffs on imported goods are set to go into effect at midnight on the 6th of July in both countries, which gives Beijing a 12-hour advantage on Washington.

However, President Donald Trump has threatened to increase the scope to $450 billion if China does indeed retaliate against his 25% tariff. On the other hand, Chinese officials have said that while everything is set in place from their end to implement tariffs on American imports in China, they will not launch the first strike.

“China has already made preparations. As long as the United States issues a so-called tariff list, China will take necessary measures to firmly protect its legitimate interests,” said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lu Kang at a daily news briefing.

The effect felt by American consumers

The list of Chinese products targeted by the US include rare earth metals, LED light bulbs and sadly, vaping devices. The US Chamber of Commerce has spoken out against the tariffs, saying that this global trade war will ultimately hurt American consumers.

As it stands, it’s unclear what will happen, and when the consumers would start feeling the effects of this duty, if it is indeed implemented. Existing stock would first have to be sold off and only then would the trickle-down effects of tariffs on intermediary goods start being felt.

Read Further: Reuters