China Angered After Trump Unveils New Tariffs Over Venezuela Oil

Beijing is fuming over President Donald Trump’s latest trade action, which threatens a 25% tariff on all goods imported into the U.S. from countries that purchase oil or gas from Venezuela. The Chinese government blasted the move and demanded that Washington withdraw the penalties.

Trump announced the new measure Monday, stating it will take effect April 2. He said it was in response to Venezuela allegedly sending violent criminals into the U.S. under the radar. “Among the gangs they sent to the United States, is Tren de Aragua,” Trump said in a post, referring to a group the U.S. has labeled a foreign terrorist organization.

China, Venezuela’s top energy buyer, reacted strongly. A foreign ministry spokesperson in Beijing called the tariffs illegal and accused the U.S. of meddling in Venezuela’s domestic affairs. China demanded the sanctions be lifted immediately and warned of consequences for what it called a violation of international norms.

The new tariff comes on top of sweeping duties Trump has already imposed on China for other reasons, including its role in fentanyl smuggling. Now, by targeting Venezuelan oil exports, the administration is tightening the screws on countries that rely on South American crude — and China is at the top of that list.

The tariff will apply to any country that imports Venezuelan oil, with Trump framing the move as a penalty for supporting a regime hostile to American interests. He has accused the Venezuelan government of sending “tens of thousands” of undercover criminals into the U.S. and undermining national security.

Chinese officials dismissed the claims and called for dialogue, but their tone reflected growing frustration. “We urge the U.S. to stop imposing unlawful tariffs and do more to promote peace and development,” the spokesperson said during a press conference in Beijing.

In addition to China, India, Spain and Cuba also purchase oil from Venezuela and could be impacted. But China’s massive volume of imports — reportedly 500,000 barrels per day in February — makes it the most exposed.

Trump has declared April 2 “Liberation Day in America,” the date his reciprocal trade agenda will begin in full. He has also vowed to use the 1798 Alien Enemies Act to deport foreign gang members back to Venezuela.

Flights carrying illegal aliens back to Caracas resumed over the weekend, with nearly 200 individuals on the latest plane, including known members of Tren de Aragua.

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