The U.S. president emphasised that the measure serves as leverage in negotiations with trading partners and will not necessarily remain in effect long term.
On Friday, February 20th President Donald Trump announced that he would raise global tariffs from 10% to 15%, with immediate effect, on imports from all countries, many of which he said have “ripped off the United States for decades without any retaliation.”
The President said on Sunday that the 15% global tariff is “temporary” and primarily serves as a negotiating tool. The U.S. administration’s goal is to secure more favourable trade terms while protecting domestic industry and reducing the trade deficit.
Trump emphasised that he remains open to negotiations and that tariffs could be reduced or eliminated if new agreements are reached. The move is part of a broader strategy aimed at strengthening the economic position of the United States.
The announcement could create further uncertainty in international markets, and several countries have expressed concern that the tariffs could negatively affect their exports and the stability of global trade. The measure could impact a number of trading partners, including European Union member states, potentially increasing tensions in transatlantic economic relations.
