• Trump advocates for boosting U.S. manufacturing of military equipment over textiles.
• Criticism arises from apparel industry leaders regarding proposed tariffs.
• Trump extends deadline for EU tariffs to July 9 to allow for negotiations.

U.S. President Donald Trump stated that his tariff policies aim to promote domestic production of military and high-tech goods rather than textiles. "We're not looking to make sneakers and T-shirts. We want to make military equipment. We want to make big things," Trump said, emphasizing a focus on computer chips and tanks during remarks made before boarding Air Force One in New Jersey, according to Reuters and The Jakarta Post.

Trump's comments support Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent's suggestion that the U.S. does not require a "booming textile industry," a statement that has drawn criticism, notably from the National Council of Textile Organizations. The American Apparel and Footwear Association (AAFA) also responded negatively, asserting that further tariffs could raise costs and prices for consumers, with AAFA President Steve Lamar stating that "more tariffs will only mean higher input costs for U.S. manufacturers," according to India Times and India Times.

Further escalating his trade policies, Trump proposed a 50% tariff on goods imported from the European Union starting June 1. However, he recently extended the deadline for these tariffs to July 9 to facilitate further negotiations with the EU. Additionally, Trump has indicated he may impose a 25% levy on all imported iPhones, intensifying concerns regarding the impact on American consumers and companies like Apple, according to Reuters, The Jakarta Post, and India Times.