US President Donald Trump has ruled out any exemptions for steel and aluminium tariffs, confirming that reciprocal and sectoral tariffs will be imposed on 2 April.
Last month, Trump raised tariffs on steel and aluminium imports to a flat 25% with no exceptions, a move aimed at bolstering US industry while intensifying global trade tensions.
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump reiterated that reciprocal tariffs on US trading partners would be introduced alongside auto duties.
“In certain cases, both,” he said when asked whether he would implement sectoral and reciprocal tariffs next month. “They charge us, and we charge them. Then, in addition to that, on autos, on steel, on aluminium, we’re going to have some additional [tariffs].”
Trump has previously stated that these measures will apply to both allies and adversaries alike starting in early April.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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