Billionaire Backs Trump’s China Plan

Business leader Kevin O’Leary is backing President Donald Trump’s powerful trade crackdown on China—saying it’s the only way to stop decades of theft, cheating, and unfair competition.

Appearing on CNN Friday morning, the Shark Tank investor didn’t hold back.

“China steals our intellectual property and acts like it’s normal. It’s time we stop playing nice,” O’Leary declared.

Trump’s Tariffs Are Long Overdue

President Trump’s new “Liberation Day” tariffs are a bold step toward economic justice. The administration has implemented a 10% universal tariff on imports, along with a massive 125% tariff hike on Chinese goods—stacked on top of the existing 20% penalty.

While most other nations were granted a 90-day pause, China was deliberately excluded due to its blatant violations of trade rules.

O’Leary compared the strategy to disciplining a disobedient pet:

“You train them by showing there are consequences. We’ve coddled China for 20 years—it’s time to act.”

China Retaliates, But America Stands Strong

In response, the Chinese Communist Party hit back with a 125% tariff on U.S. products, set to take effect Saturday. But President Trump isn’t blinking.

“No president—Democrat or Republican—has had the backbone to stand up to China,” O’Leary said. “Trump is the first.”

It’s About More Than Trade—It’s About American Freedom

O’Leary made it clear: this isn’t just a trade dispute. It’s a fight for economic freedom, national security, and the future of American innovation.

He even called for a 400% tariff on Chinese products until Beijing respects World Trade Organization rules and stops stealing American technology.

“They’ve broken the rules since 2001. Trump is the first to hold them accountable,” he said. “I’ve done business in China. I’ve seen the corruption myself.”

A Call for Real Negotiations—On America’s Terms

Despite the tough talk, O’Leary hopes this pressure will force President Xi Jinping to the table.

“We don’t want a trade war—we want a fair deal. But we won’t get one without strength,” he said.

✅ Why This Story Matters for America

• Intellectual property theft costs the U.S. hundreds of billions each year.
• Unfair trade practices have hollowed out American manufacturing towns.
• President Trump’s tariffs are restoring leverage we lost decades ago.