Credited from: CHANNELNEWSASIA
Key takeaways:
In a notable response to President Donald Trump's recent imposition of broad tariffs affecting numerous trading partners, over 50 countries have reached out to the White House, eager to negotiate terms. The announcement of these tariffs led to immediate turmoil in global markets, with significant losses observed in stock values, totaling nearly $6 trillion. White House National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett, speaking on ABC's "This Week," assured that these tariffs would not induce a significant impact on American consumers, as he believes that negotiating capabilities are still available despite current tensions. “The fact is, the countries are angry and retaliating — and, by the way, coming to the table,” Hassett stated, reiterating that international counterparts are keen to engage in discussions with the U.S. to formulate fair trade agreements.
Trump, however, has made it clear that he has no intentions to halt or pause his aggressive tariff policies despite market instability and business complaints urging reconsideration. In his latest remarks, he stated, “We’re not looking at that,” emphasizing that negotiations would proceed according to his terms. The tariffs, which were applied universally, have sparked fears of a potential global trade war, with critics pointing to the likelihood of a recession as a fallout from these policies. During his talks, Trump noted that there might even be a consideration for “permanent tariffs” on specific nations while simultaneously inviting negotiations for more favorable deals.
Among nations signaling their interest in discussions are Japan, where Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has suggested opening negotiation channels, and Israel, whose Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited the White House, expressing hopes of easing tariffs. Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te has also pledged to negotiate towards establishing zero tariffs between the two nations. Meanwhile, the economic forecasts remain shaky, with analysts warning of the repercussions should the tariffs continue without resolution.
In the face of turbulence, Trump remains steadfast, suggesting that the current path will ultimately lead to greater trade security for the U.S. Amid diverging opinions on the misleading premise of trade deficits as a failure of other nations rather than an economic parameter that fluctuates with many influences, his administration insists these tariffs are a strategic stepping stone for American interests in the global market.
As the Trump administration navigates through negotiations, the future implications of these tariffs on both domestic and international economies remain an area of acute scrutiny.
For further details, you can read the full articles on ABC News, India Times, and NY Times.