US President Donald Trump said he would impose a 10 per cent baseline tariff on all imports to the United States and higher duties on some of the country’s biggest trading partners, drawing defiant responses from leaders and governments around the world.
Mr Trump is not imposing his new 10 per cent global tariff rate on goods from top trading partners Canada and Mexico while his previous order remains in place for up to 25 per cent tariffs on many goods from the two countries over border control and fentanyl trafficking issues, the White House said in a fact sheet.
Here are some reactions from top officials around the world.
China Commerce Ministry
“China firmly opposes this and will take countermeasures to safeguard its own rights and interests,” it said.
“There are no winners in trade wars, and there is no way out for protectionism. China urges the US to immediately lift unilateral tariffs and properly resolve differences with its trading partners through dialogue on an equal footing.”
Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba
“Japan is a country that is making the largest amount of investment to the United States, so we wonder if it makes sense for (Washington) to apply uniform tariffs to all countries,” he said.
“We need to consider what’s best for Japan’s national interest. We’re putting all options on the table in considering the most effective response.”
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney
“(Trump) has preserved a number of important elements of our relationship, the commercial relationship between Canada and the United States. But the fentanyl tariffs still remain in place, as do the tariffs for steel and aluminum,” he said.
“We are going to fight these tariffs with countermeasures, we are going to protect our workers, and we are going to build the strongest economy in the G7.”
Brazilian Foreign Ministry
“The Brazilian government regrets the decision made by the North American government today, April 2, to impose additional tariffs of no more than 10 per cent on all Brazilian exports to that country,” it said.
“The Brazilian government is evaluating all possible actions to ensure reciprocity in bilateral trade, including resorting to the World Trade Organisation, in defence of legitimate national interests.”
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese
“It is the American people who will pay the biggest price for these unjustified tariffs. This is why our government will not be seeking to impose reciprocal tariffs. We will not join a race to the bottom that leads to higher prices and slower growth.”
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South Korean Acting President Han Duck-soo
“As the global trade war has become a reality, the government must pour all its capabilities to overcome the trade crisis.”
New Zealand Trade Minister Todd Mcclay
“New Zealand’s interests are best served in a world where trade flows freely... New Zealand’s bilateral relationship with the US remains strong. We will be talking with the administration to get more information, and our exporters to better understand the impact this announcement will have.”
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez
“Spain will protect its companies and workers and will continue to be committed to an open world.”
Sweden Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson
“We don’t want growing trade barriers. We don’t want a trade war... we want to find our way back to a path of trade and cooperation together with the US, so that people in our countries can enjoy a better life.”
Swiss President Karin Keller-sutter
“(The Federal Council) will quickly determine the next steps. The country’s long-term economic interests are paramount. Adherence to international law and free trade remain core values.”
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Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin
“The decision by the US tonight to impose 20 per cent tariffs on imports from across the European Union is deeply regrettable. I strongly believe that tariffs benefit no one. My priority, and that of the government, is to protect Irish jobs and the Irish economy.”
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni
“We will do everything we can to work towards an agreement with the United States, with the goal of avoiding a trade war that would inevitably weaken the West in favor of other global players.”
Mr Manfred Weber, President Of The EPP, Largest Party In European Parliament
“To our American friends, today is not liberation day - it is resentment day.
Mr Donald Trump’s tariffs do not defend fair trade. They attack it out of fear and hurt both sides of the Atlantic. Europe stands united, ready to defend its interests, and open to fair, firm talks.”
Colombian President Gustavo Petro
“We will only make US imports more expensive if they take away our jobs. But we won’t raise tariffs if their goods help create higher-value jobs.” REUTERS
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