China slaps tariffs on U.S.-produced pork, apples and more

Associated Press

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BEIJING – American farmers could have a tougher time selling pork, apples and other products as China levied new tariffs Monday in retaliation against taxes approved by President Donald Trump on imported steel and aluminum.

The announcement follows through on warnings Chinese officials have made for several weeks in an escalating trade dispute with the United States.

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China’s Customs Tariff Commission is increasing the tariff rate on eight imported U.S. products, including pork, by 25 percent. It’s also imposing a new 15 percent tariff on 120 imported U.S. commodities, including fruits.

The tariffs mirror Trump’s 25 percent charge on imported steel and 15 percent hike on aluminum. Trump’s tariffs are partly a response to complaints that Beijing steals or pressures foreign companies to hand over technology.