PALM BEACH: Former U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday that tariffs on automobiles would remain at approximately 25%, with further details set to be revealed in an official statement on April 2.
Last Friday, Trump indicated that these auto tariffs could take effect as early as April 2, the day after his cabinet is expected to present reports outlining potential import duty adjustments. These measures are part of his broader effort to reshape global trade policies.
Trump has consistently criticized what he sees as unfair trade practices that disadvantage U.S. auto exports. He has particularly highlighted the European Union’s 10% tariff on vehicle imports, which is four times higher than the 2.5% rate imposed by the U.S. on passenger cars. However, the U.S. currently enforces a 25% tariff on imported pickup trucks, a highly profitable segment of the market.
In addition to the auto industry, Trump revealed on Tuesday that sectoral tariffs on pharmaceutical products and semiconductor chips would also begin at 25% in April, with some increases expected over the next year.
Since taking office, Trump has implemented a 10% tariff on all Chinese imports alongside pre-existing duties. He has also announced—but later postponed—25% tariffs on goods from Mexico and non-energy imports from Canada.
Additionally, he has scheduled a 25% tariff on all imported steel and aluminum, set to take effect on March 12. Last week, Trump instructed his economic team to formulate a strategy for imposing reciprocal tariffs on any country that levies taxes on U.S. exports.
