By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
Donald Trump is preparing to unveil a series of reciprocal tariffs, with global markets on edge as trade war concerns rise.
Trump stated, “We’re going to be very kind, relatively speaking, we’re going to be very kind,” but emphasized that the tariffs are necessary because the U.S. has been “ripped off by every country in the world.”
The president’s comments come as some Republican senators, like Susan Collins, have voiced opposition, particularly to tariffs targeting Canada.
Collins warned that such measures could hurt Maine’s economy and expressed intentions to back a resolution blocking the tariffs.
As Trump moves forward with these tariffs, countries like China, South Korea, and Japan are strengthening their trade ties. However, Trump remains unbothered by these shifts, saying, “I’m not worried that they’re going to move toward China.”
The uncertainty surrounding his announcement has caused market fluctuations, with key European and Asian indexes closing lower, although the Dow and S&P 500 saw small gains.
The looming tariffs have sparked fears of a U.S. recession, with Goldman Sachs increasing its recession probability from 20% to 35%. Trump’s tariffs could target countries with significant trade imbalances with the U.S., including China, Mexico, and Japan.
In response, trade partners like the EU are preparing countermeasures, while global organizations like the IMF have voiced concern, though they suggest the global impact may not be immediately severe.
