Trump pauses tariffs on China for 90 days: What does it mean for global trade?

An unexpected truce in the trade war.
The announcement took markets by surprise: Donald Trump stated he would pause tariffs on China for 90 days if he wins the election. This decision could reshape the rules of international trade in 2025.

But what is behind this move? And how will it affect companies that depend on commerce between these two global powers?

Since 2018, the U.S. and China have been engaged in a tariff battle that has cost the global economy trillions.

• Technology products, steel, and agricultural goods have been the most affected
• Supply chains have been forcibly reorganized
• Final consumers have faced higher prices

Now, Trump proposes a temporary “breather.” Political strategy or real policy shift?

The 3 immediate impacts of the 2025 tariff pause

Relief for importers: Mexican companies using Chinese components could see lower costs.

Market uncertainty: Stock markets will show volatility until concrete details are released.

Opportunity to renegotiate: Countries like Mexico could take advantage and strengthen trade agreements.

What happens after the 90 days?

Experts warn: this is not the end of the conflict.

• China may demand concessions in exchange
• The EU and other blocs will push for similar deals
• The U.S. election results will determine whether this becomes a permanent measure

This pause gives global companies a moment of relief, but the future remains uncertain.

For business leaders, the message is clear:

• Diversifying suppliers remains essential
• Use these months to adjust strategies
• Monitor political developments closely

In a landscape where tariffs and trade policies shift rapidly — as seen with this temporary pause between the U.S. and China — having specialized foreign trade support becomes essential. At Consultora en Comercio Exterior, we protect your company from regulatory volatility through:

• Personalized tariff vulnerability analysis
• Compliance strategies for every regulatory change
• Supply chain restructuring in response to new trade barriers
• Market-intelligence scenario simulations

While governments negotiate, we help you strengthen your legal processes in foreign trade, reduce risks, and leverage new opportunities in the evolving geopolitical landscape.