Trump's tariff turmoil: Global reactions and economic impact
Donald Trump announced the implementation of new tariffs on imports to the USA, which will take effect on 5th April. The decision has sparked a wave of comments worldwide.
What do you need to know?
- New tariffs in the USA: Starting 5th April, the USA will introduce a minimum 10% tariff on imports from all countries. For the European Union, tariffs will be 20%.
- International reactions: Prime Minister Donald Tusk emphasised the need for reciprocal tariffs, and Ursula von der Leyen announced the introduction of retaliatory tariffs.
- Context of the decision: Trump described the new tariffs as a "declaration of economic independence," aimed at reviving American industry.
Which countries will be affected by the new tariffs?
Donald Trump announced that from 5th April, the USA will implement a minimum 10% tariff on imports from all countries. However, for the European Union, tariffs will be higher and amount to 20%. The U.S. President emphasised that this decision is a response to unfavourable trade practices of other countries. - You think of the European Union, very friendly. They rip us off, it is so sad to see – it is so pathetic. They charge us 39%, we’re going to charge 20% – so we’re charging them essentially half - said Trump.
What are the reactions of world leaders?
Trump's decision met with widespread international reaction. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced that his country will fight against the American tariffs. British Trade Minister Jonathan Reynolds highlighted that the United Kingdom "remain calm and committed to doing this deal [deal with US - ed.]."
What does "liberation day" mean for the USA?
Donald Trump designated 2nd April 2025 as the "day of liberation," emphasising that the new tariffs aim to revive American industry. - Well, we have some very, very good news today, and a lot of good things are happening for our country. April 2, 2025 will forever be remembered as the day American industry was reborn, the day America’s destiny was reclaimed, and the day that we began to make America wealthy again. Going to make it wealthy, good and wealthy - Trump said. The U.S. President noted that his decisions are a "declaration of economic independence," which are intended to bring about the "golden age" of America.
Trump's decision was also reacted to by, among others, Ursula von der Leyen, who announced that the EU will respond with retaliatory tariffs. - We are already finalising the first package of countermeasures in response to tariffs on steel, and we are now preparing for further countermeasures to protect our interests and our businesses if negotiations fail - announced Ursula von der Leyen on Thursday morning.
China also spoke out on the matter, calling on the USA to "immediately" withdraw from imposing an additional 34% tariff on them. Beijing threatened that otherwise, it will also respond by imposing its own tariffs.
