An Overview of Donald Trump's Tariff Measures

Last week, financial markets and international trade were significantly impacted after United States President Donald Trump announced the imposition of “reciprocal tariffs” on more than 180 countries. The measure, officially communicated on Wednesday, April 2 — a date Trump dubbed “U.S. Liberation Day” — includes rates ranging from 10% to 50%, taking effect on Saturday, April 5, with further adjustments expected by April 9.

According to the president, the initiative marks the “rebirth” of American industry and represents the reclaiming of U.S. economic control. However, the decision sparked immediate reactions across the international landscape, with several countries pledging retaliation, suspending investments in the U.S., and redirecting their trade strategies.

Experts warn that the new tariffs could have significant consequences for the global economy. The rise in import costs is likely to increase the price of goods and materials in the U.S., putting upward pressure on inflation, dampening domestic consumption, and increasing the risk of an economic slowdown or even a recession.

The World Trade Organization (WTO) estimates that the U.S. tariff policy could reduce global trade volume by 1% by 2025. Furthermore, the instability triggered by the measure has led to sharp declines in stock markets around the world, reflecting concerns over a potential protectionist escalation that could hinder international economic growth.

Trump defended the tariffs as a response to what he called “unfair” trade practices by foreign partners and reiterated his commitment to reducing public debt and rebalancing the U.S. trade deficit.