Trump Announces Reciprocal Tariff To Counter ‘Unfair Trade’
Washington, D.C., 17 February 2025: President Donald Trump has introduced a new trade policy based on reciprocal tariffs, declaring that the United States will impose the same duties that other nations levy on American goods. In a strong statement, Trump asserted that the US has faced unfair treatment in global trade and vowed to implement measures ensuring a level playing field for American workers.
Trump stated that countries using the VAT system, which he considers more punitive than tariffs, would also be subject to these measures. He warned against attempts to bypass US tariffs by rerouting products through third-party nations, stressing that such practices would not be tolerated. Additionally, he announced provisions to counter foreign subsidies and nonmonetary trade barriers that restrict American exports or prevent US businesses from operating abroad.
The president defended the policy as fair, stating that countries could simply lower or remove their own tariffs to avoid facing reciprocal duties. He also reaffirmed that manufacturing within the US would remain tariff-free.
Trump described the move as a necessary correction after years of economic disadvantage, pledging that his administration would take all necessary steps to enforce trade reciprocity. He instructed the Secretaries of State, Commerce, and Treasury, along with the US Trade Representative, to implement the strategy.
This policy shift, reflecting Trump’s long-standing protectionist stance, is expected to trigger debate globally, particularly among major US trading partners.
