Donald Trump To Announce Reciprocal Tariffs Ahead Of PM Modi's Visit, Confirms White House

(MENAFN- Live Mint) White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed on Wednesday (February 12) that President Donald trump will announce a reciprocal tariff plan before Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit.

“I do believe it will come before the prime minister's visit tomorrow,” press secretary Karoline Leavitt stated at the White House when questioned about Trump's upcoming announcement. She added,“I will let the president discuss the details on the reciprocal tariff front, but this is something he believes strongly in.”

Trump has long advocated for tariffs that match the tax rates imposed by other countries on US goods. "It's time to be reciprocal," he told reporters earlier this week. "You'll be hearing that word a lot. Reciprocal . If they charge us, we charge them."

The president was initially expected to sign the order on Tuesday or Wednesday, but when asked about the timeline, he responded, "We'll see what happens."

Breaking with trade precedents

If signed, the order would mark a significant shift from previous administrations, which largely viewed trade tariffs as strategic tools or trade barriers to be lowered. Trump has expressed a desire to return to an economic model from the 1890s, when import taxes were a primary source of government revenue.

Tariffs on China, Mexico, and Canada

Trump has already imposed a 10% tariff on Chinese goods over its role in fentanyl production, prompting retaliatory measures from China . He has also warned that tariffs on Mexico and Canada could be implemented by March 1 if those nations do not take stronger actions against illegal immigration and drug smuggling.

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