The White House announced that no exemptions will be granted for reciprocal tariffs as part of President Trump’s “Liberation Day” initiative, which aims to address unfair trade practices by other nations. Significant tariffs on American exports from countries such as Japan, the EU, and India have been highlighted, along with a newly released report on global trade barriers that impede U.S. exports.
In a recent announcement, White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt confirmed that there would be no exemptions from reciprocal tariffs as President Donald Trump approaches his planned “Liberation Day” tariffs. Leavitt emphasized that “unfair trade practices” from other countries must come to an end, indicating a strong stance against international tariffs levied on American goods.
Leavitt highlighted significant tariffs imposed on American products, including a 700% tariff from Japan on rice, a 50% tariff from the EU on dairy, a 100% tariff from India on agricultural products, and nearly a 300% tariff from Canada on butter and cheese. These high tariffs hinder American products’ competitiveness in foreign markets and have negatively impacted American businesses and employment over the years.
The forthcoming reciprocal tariffs aim to address these discrepancies by aligning U.S. tariffs with those faced by American exporters. The Trump administration maintains that the current tariff structure is inequitable and detrimental to U.S. manufacturers and their workforce. Leavitt stressed the need for an overhaul of trade relationships to rectify these imbalances.
Additionally, the Trump administration released a report on foreign trade barriers, detailing policies that obstruct U.S. exports. The report outlines various average applied tariff rates and non-tariff barriers, such as stringent food safety regulations and public procurement rules, that create challenges for American exporters.
US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer asserted that the Trump administration is committed to addressing these unfair practices to benefit American businesses and workers. He emphasized that no other president has acknowledged these extensive foreign trade obstacles in modern history as thoroughly as President Trump.
The report points out specific issues, including delays associated with EU approvals for genetically modified crops and certain agricultural import restrictions. Furthermore, it identifies potential new EU requirements related to post-consumer recycled content in packaging that could impede U.S. export activities.
Additionally, longstanding barriers in Canadian dairy, poultry, and egg industries exacerbate trade tensions. The report reveals high tariffs related to Canadian supply management, which significantly restrict the importation of cheese and butter. It also notes burdensome VAT procedures in countries like Argentina and Mexico, as well as China’s use of VAT rebates to promote certain exports.
The White House has outlined significant upcoming tariff changes as part of President Trump’s strategy to address unfair international trade practices. The administration’s focus on reciprocal tariffs reflects a firm commitment to protecting U.S. businesses and workers from imported barriers that hinder their competitiveness. The detailed report on foreign trade barriers underscores the challenges that American exporters face and the administration’s agenda to rectify these discrepancies, promoting a fairer trading environment.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
