Trump’s Global Tariff Plan Sparks Trade War Fears
Former U.S. President Donald Trump has confirmed that his planned tariffs will apply to all countries, rather than just those with significant trade imbalances with the United States.
Trump, speaking aboard Air Force One on Sunday, dashed expectations that the tariffs might be scaled back or limited to a select group of nations.
“You’d start with all countries, so let’s see what happens,” he stated, dismissing speculation that only the so-called ‘Dirty 15’—countries with persistent trade imbalances—would be targeted.
April 2: Trump’s ‘Liberation Day’
Trump has dubbed April 2 as “Liberation Day,” when he will unveil reciprocal levies aimed at addressing what he claims are decades of unfair trade practices against the U.S.
“The tariffs will be far more generous than those countries were to us,” Trump said. “They ripped us off like no country has ever been ripped off in history, and we’re going to be much nicer than they were to us.”
Massive Tariff Revenue Projection
Trump’s top trade advisor, Peter Navarro, claimed that the new tariffs could generate up to $600 billion annually—approximately $6 trillion over a decade.
Additionally, auto imports will face new tariffs starting April 3, a move that could generate another $100 billion per year.
Global Backlash and Economic Risks
The sweeping tariff plan has already drawn warnings from economists, who caution it could trigger:
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A global trade war, as countries retaliate.
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Rising inflation, due to increased costs of imported goods.
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Economic downturn risks, as businesses and consumers face higher prices.
Despite concerns, Trump remains firm, arguing that the tariffs will revitalize American industry and boost government revenue.
As April 2 approaches, the world awaits Trump’s next move, with global markets bracing for impact.
