President Donald Trump remains confident in his economic strategy, despite ongoing criticism and rising international tensions.
As global trade relations grow increasingly strained, Trump has doubled down on his stance, reflecting on the potential economic impact of the United States’ latest wave of tariffs. On April 2nd, the president announced his controversial “Liberation Day” plan, which introduces sweeping new tariffs on imports from countries around the world—including traditional allies and long-time trade partners.
Under the new policy, the U.S. will impose a 25% tariff on all foreign-made automobiles. A baseline tariff of 10% will apply to goods from all countries not part of the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), while specific rates include a 10% tariff on UK imports and a 20% tariff on goods from the European Union. Countries deemed non-compliant with the USMCA terms will face a 25% tariff across the board.
Trump claims the policy will generate substantial daily revenue for the U.S. economy. However, the move has sparked international backlash. Several foreign leaders have expressed willingness to negotiate new deals to avoid the tariffs but have also issued warnings of retaliatory measures. China, in particular, appears to be entering a renewed trade war with the U.S., signaling a volatile period ahead for global commerce.
Trump has insisted he knows what he is doing and that his plan will work for the American people (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)
Former President Trump has remained steadfast in his belief that his economic plan will lead to a revival of American industry and ultimately benefit the American people.
On Wednesday (April 9), the U.S. government officially began collecting tariffs imposed on 90 countries — including a staggering 104% levy on Chinese imports.
Speaking at a White House event on Tuesday (April 8), Trump touted the financial gains from the tariffs, claiming the U.S. was already “taking in almost $2 billion a day.”
He also asserted that many countries were eager to negotiate in order to avoid the tariffs. “These countries are calling me up, kissing my a**… they are dying to make a deal,” he said.
Trump also insisted many countries were trying to strike up deals to avoid tariffs(SAUL LOEB/AFP via Getty Images)
Mocking how countries were groveling, he mimicked them adding: “Please, please, sir, make a deal. I’ll do anything.'”
He continued: “I really think we are helped by the tariff situation that is going on which is a good situation, not bad, its great.
“It is going to be legendary, you watch, legendary in a positive way, I have to say.
“That is why additional tariffs on Chinese goods are in place effective midnight tonight at 104% until they make a deal with us that is what it is going to be.
“I think they’ll make a deal at some point, China wants to make a deal, they really do, they just don’t know how to get it started because they are proud people.”
