US President Donald Trump is reportedly urging his senior advisers to adopt a more aggressive approach to tariffs as the administration gears up for a significant escalation in its global trade war. According to a report by the Washington Post on Saturday, four individuals familiar with the situation revealed that Trump has been advocating for sweeping trade measures designed to reshape the US economy.
Despite appeals from allies on Wall Street and Capitol Hill for a more measured strategy, Trump remains adamant about intensifying trade actions. His insistence on expanding tariffs reflects a broader vision of boosting manufacturing jobs and generating substantial government revenue. Recently, he revisited the concept of a universal tariff, which would apply uniformly to most imports regardless of their country of origin.
Universal tariffs?
The prospect of implementing a universal tariff has resurfaced in Trump’s discussions with advisers. However, it remains unclear how seriously the administration is considering this policy. The Washington Post report highlighted Trump’s frustration over not enacting broader tariffs during his first term, blaming his advisers for persuading him to hold back. He continues to argue that tariffs represent a victory for the United States by creating jobs and adding trillions to government revenue.
The White House has yet to issue an official response to the report. Trump’s aggressive stance on tariffs has consistently drawn mixed reactions. Proponents argue that tariffs protect domestic industries and create jobs, while critics warn of potential economic repercussions, including higher consumer prices and strained international relations.
On Friday, Trump indicated that he was open to negotiating deals with countries seeking exemptions from US tariffs. However, he emphasised that such agreements would only be considered after the administration implements reciprocal tariffs on April 2.
Trump signals new pharmaceutical tariffs
Trump announced on Friday that he would soon unveil new tariffs aimed at the pharmaceutical industry. However, he did not specify whether life-saving medications would be exempt or reveal the exact tariff rates. “It’ll be a certain number that will be enough to get the drugs and the pharmaceutical companies to bring in their product into our country. We never want to have to rely on other countries for that, like we did in Covid,” Trump stated.
Praise for PM Modi amid tariff talks
During the swearing-in ceremony of US Attorney for New Jersey, Alina Habba, Trump expressed optimism regarding the ongoing India-US tariff negotiations. He praised Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling him a “very smart man” and a “great friend.”
“Prime Minister Modi was here just recently, and we’ve always been very good friends,” Trump said. He also highlighted India’s high tariff rates, adding, “India is one of the highest tariffing nations in the world… They’re very smart. He (PM Modi) is a very smart man and a great friend of mine. We had very good talks. I think it’s going to work out very well between India and our country. And I want to say you have a great prime minister.”
(With agency inputs)