Trump issues threat to impose 25 percent tariffs on main metal shipments

(MENAFN) US President Donald trump has threatened to impose new 25% tariffs on all steel and aluminum imports, with further details expected to be revealed soon. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump emphasized that the new tariffs would apply universally, affecting all countries. This would be in addition to existing duties on metals. The US, one of the largest consumers of steel and the second-largest importer, sources steel primarily from Canada, Brazil, Mexico, South Korea, and Vietnam, while Canada is also the leading supplier of aluminum.

Previously, Trump had implemented 25% tariffs on steel and 10% on aluminum during his first term but granted exemptions for key trading partners such as Canada, Mexico, and Brazil. His latest announcement has already sparked backlash, particularly from Canadian officials, who criticized the unpredictable nature of these trade policies.

Trump has also imposed tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada, as well as on Chinese goods, to address concerns about immigration and drug trafficking. After discussions with Canadian and Mexican leaders, he delayed the levies for 30 days to allow for improved border protections. Trump's trade actions have led to some temporary adjustments, such as retaining the duty-free status of small-value packages from China.

Looking ahead, Trump warned that tariffs could expand further, and he reiterated his plan to introduce "reciprocal tariffs," meaning the US would impose tariffs in response to high duties from other countries, ensuring that trade relationships are more balanced. He suggested these new measures could be enacted soon, likely by mid-week.

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