President Donald Trump announced on Monday that any country purchasing oil from Venezuela will face a 25% tariff on all trade with the United States. Trump cited Venezuela’s hostile stance toward the U.S. and its alleged role in sending criminals, including gang members, to the U.S. as reasons for the tariff. This announcement comes amidst Trump’s plans to delay other tariffs, including those on pharmaceuticals, cars, and lumber, originally scheduled to take effect on April 2, 2025.

Despite sanctions, Venezuelan oil continues to flow into the U.S. due to a special license granted to Chevron, which Trump extended to May 27, 2025, after meeting with oil executives. Venezuela remains a significant oil supplier, with China being its largest foreign market, importing 351,000 barrels per day in 2024.

The tariffs are seen as part of a broader strategy to target China, as Trump’s previous trade measures already impose significant tariffs on Chinese goods. If China continues to import Venezuelan oil, it could face a combined 45% tariff on goods entering the U.S. Additionally, steel and aluminum imports from China could see a 70% tax, adding pressure to the ongoing trade tensions between the two countries.