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The president Donald Trump is preparing to announce on Wednesday, April 2, a new package of trade tariffs that could include a broad customs tax of 20% on all imports to the United States, according to The Wall Street Journal.
The measure would represent a drastic shift from the initial proposals focused on countries with a trade surplus, and it would increase global economic uncertainty. In fact, discussions within his team have intensified in recent hours to define the scope and exact format of these levies.
One of the most debated options is whether a general tariff will be applied to all trading partners or if it will be limited to a list of countries with the largest trade surpluses with the U.S., which Trump himself has referred to as the "dirty 15."
A "big and simple" measure for the so-called "Liberation Day."
The chosen date for the announcement, dubbed by Trump as the "Liberation Day", reflects the symbolic weight that the president intends to give to this new chapter of his trade policy.
A high-ranking official quoted by The Wall Street Journal stated that Trump aims to present something “big and simple”, aligning with his narrative of rebuilding the U.S. industrial apparatus.
The possibility of applying a 20% tariff on all imports would contradict the strategy suggested by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who has advocated for a more targeted approach against countries with greater trade advantages over the U.S., according to the agency EFE.
During the last week of March, Trump imposed a 25% tariff on all cars manufactured outside the country, in what he described as a historic measure to protect the domestic automotive industry and reduce dependence on imports.
Nervous markets in the face of contradictory signals
While Trump claims that he will be "more generous" with countries he considers allies, he has also instructed his team to adopt a tougher and more expansive stance, which has led to mixed signals that are beginning to affect global financial markets.
Asian and European markets opened on Monday with widespread declines, while major Wall Street indices like the Nasdaq and the S&P 500 also started the day in the red, reflecting concerns over the possibility of an expanded trade war.
Likewise, the leading airlines and hotel chains in the United States are among the first to be impacted by the economic and immigration measures implemented by the new government of Donald Trump.
The imposition of new tariffs, uncertainty surrounding international trade, and the tightening of border controls are leading to a decline in travel demand and a severe blow to the tourism sector.
Global potential impact
If a uniform tariff of 20% is implemented on all imports, the effect would be global and profound: from consumer goods to raw materials, encompassing key sectors such as automotive, technology, and agribusiness.
Moreover, the measure could provoke trade reprisals from other countries, further jeopardizing the stability of international supply chains in an already sensitive context affected by geopolitical conflicts and a global economic slowdown.
Trump will receive a detailed report on the main trading partners of the U.S. this Tuesday, and this document is expected to serve as the basis for the final decision that will be announced on Wednesday.
Frequently Asked Questions about Trump’s New Tariffs
What changes does Donald Trump propose for import tariffs to the United States?
The president Donald Trump plans to announce a general tariff of 20% on all imports to the United States. This measure represents a drastic change from his previous approach, which mainly focused on countries with a trade surplus. The decision aims to reduce reliance on imports and strengthen the domestic industry.
How will these tariffs affect the global economy?
If a 20% tariff is implemented on all imports, the impact would be global and significant: it would affect everything from consumer goods to key sectors such as automotive, technology, and agribusiness. Furthermore, it is likely that other countries would respond with trade retaliations, which could further destabilize international supply chains.
What are the possible repercussions for the automotive sector?
The automotive sector is already facing a 25% tariff on imported cars, a measure that will take effect on April 2. This could lead to an increase in vehicle prices and create uncertainty in the market. Major automotive companies have expressed concern, as shifting production to the United States is not a viable option in the short term.
What sectors could be most affected by Trump's tariffs?
The automotive, technology, and agro-industrial sectors are among the most vulnerable. The increase in tariffs could raise the cost of essential products and components, affecting both manufacturers and consumers. Additionally, an increase in the costs of agricultural products, electronics, and vehicles is anticipated due to reliance on imports.
What position has Trump taken toward allied countries and the main trading partners of the U.S.?
Trump has declared that he will be “more generous” with countries he considers allies, but at the same time, he has urged his team to adopt a tougher and more expansive stance. This has generated contradictory signals that are beginning to impact global financial markets. The countries most affected so far include Mexico, Canada, and China, which have already warned of possible reprisals.
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