Markets

Trump: If President Xi does not attend G-20, more China tariffs will go into effect immediately

Key Points
  • President Trump threatened more tariffs on Chinese imports if President Xi Jinping is not at this month's G-20 meeting.
  • The president previously threatened to put levies on another $300 billion in Chinese goods if an agreement is not reached soon.
Trump: If President Xi does not attend G-20, more China tariffs will go into effect
VIDEO4:3704:37
Trump: If President Xi does not attend G-20, expect more China tariffs

President Donald Trump confirmed on Monday that additional tariffs on Chinese goods will be levied if Chinese President Xi Jinping does not attend this month's G-20 meeting.

When asked during a telephone interview if that means the new tariffs would go into effect immediately, Trump told CNBC's Becky Quick, "Yes, it would."

The president previously threatened to put levies on another $300 billion in Chinese goods if a trade agreement is not reached soon. The Trump administration increased tariffs last month on $200 billion worth of goods the U.S. imports from China.

President Trump calls into CNBC to defend tariff strategy — Here are the highlights
VIDEO2:2702:27
President Trump calls into CNBC to defend tariff strategy — Here are the highlights

Trump is supposed to meet with Xi at the G-20 summit, which is scheduled for June 28-29 in Osaka, Japan. The leaders of 19 nations and the European Union are expected to attend.

In the telephone interview on "Squawk Box," the president said he'd be surprised if Xi did not attend. Trump said he has "a great relationship" with Xi, adding that "he's actually an incredible guy."

As the trade war between the U.S. and China continues, Trump has said he will continue raising tariffs on Chinese goods. He said his administration is currently taxing "35% to 40%" of the Chinese goods the U.S. imports. If an agreement isn't reached, there are "another 60% and that'll be taxed," Trump said.