Still, trade experts said they expect the China tariffs to increase prices paid by U.S. shoppers, since importers typically pass along a share of the cost of those higher taxes to consumers. The tariffs could hike prices for an array of goods, from curtains to saucepans to winter coats.

China's finance ministry said it would impose levies of 15% for U.S. coal and 10% for crude oil, farm equipment and some cars.