President Donald Trump confirmed plans to implement both broad reciprocal tariffs and additional sector-specific tariffs on foreign goods beginning April 2. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump explained that the tariffs would target imports from various countries, with both general and industry-specific levies.
In his comments, Trump stated, “They charge us and we charge them, and then in addition to that, on autos, steel, and aluminum, we are going to have additional tariffs.” This announcement signals a continuation of Trump’s aggressive tariff strategy, despite early market volatility and international tensions stemming from the policy.
The president previously introduced the concept of reciprocal tariffs, a measure that would impose import duties based on the tariff rates and non-tariff barriers of trading partners. It remains unclear whether the new sector-specific tariffs would be incorporated into this framework or applied in addition to it.
“This is a liberating day for our country,” Trump said, emphasizing the tariffs as a way to reclaim wealth he believes past administrations had given away through misguided trade policies.
Under his administration, Trump has already imposed a 20% tariff on Chinese goods and a 25% levy on steel and aluminum imports. Additionally, a 25% tariff on Canadian and Mexican goods was announced but temporarily postponed for items covered by the new USMCA trade deal, negotiated during his first term. Certain Canadian goods, such as energy and potash, have been exempted from the higher tariffs, with a 10% tax instead.
Trump’s remarks indicate his firm commitment to advancing his “America First” trade policies, with the administration set to intensify its tariff actions in the coming weeks.
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