**United States**: Investor Kevin O’Leary urged a 400% tariff on Chinese imports, citing intellectual property theft and unfair trade practices amid escalating US-China tariff disputes. He demanded stronger US action and direct negotiations to protect American interests.
Kevin O’Leary, investor and star of the television show “Shark Tank,” has called for the imposition of 400% tariffs on Chinese goods, intensifying the ongoing trade tensions between the United States and China. Speaking on CNN’s programme “Laura Coates Live” on Tuesday, O’Leary expressed strong criticism of China’s trade practices, particularly regarding intellectual property theft and the use of Western technology.
O’Leary, who has business dealings in China, accused the Chinese government of cheating in trade policies and emphasised that his frustration stems from repeated intellectual property infringements. He said, “I speak for millions of Americans who have [intellectual property] that have been stolen by the Chinese.” While making a distinction between the Chinese government and the people, whom he praised for their contributions to literacy, art, and technology, he placed responsibility squarely on the Chinese authorities.
He urged a dramatic shift in trade policy, stating, “Finally, an administration — you may not like Trump, you may not like his style or his rhetoric — finally, an administration that puts up and says ‘Enough! 400% tariffs tomorrow morning!’” O’Leary’s comments came as part of a wider commentary on the U.S. economy’s global standing, which he described as still being “the No. 1 economy on Earth with all the cards,” but warned that this leadership would not last indefinitely without decisive action.
In a striking and controversial metaphor, O’Leary said, “It’s time to squeeze Chinese heads into the wall now!” He added that Chinese President Xi Jinping must be brought to Washington “to level the playing field,” underscoring the need for direct negotiations or pressure from the U.S. government.
These remarks come amid escalating trade hostilities. On Wednesday, China responded to increased U.S. tariffs of 104% on Chinese products by raising its own tariffs on American goods to 84%. The Ministry of Commerce in Beijing announced the country would “fight to the end,” signalling a firm stance against the tariffs introduced by the Trump administration.
O’Leary has been known for his forthright language regarding China’s trade practices in the past, and his recent statements reinforce his persistent stance on the issue.
The ongoing tariff hikes by both nations continue to raise concerns over economic impacts and the future of U.S.-China trade relations. As the dispute unfolds, voices like O’Leary’s contribute to the discourse on how the United States should respond to challenges in global trade dynamics.
Source: Noah Wire Services
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