High Tariffs from India and Other Nations "Virtually Impossible" for US Exporters: White House
In a strong critique of international trade practices, the White House has highlighted India's imposition of a 100% tariff on American agricultural products, describing such high duties as "virtually impossible" hurdles for US exports. This statement comes as President Donald Trump prepares to roll out reciprocal tariffs, which he terms "Liberation Day," on April 2.President Trump has frequently voiced his concerns regarding the excessive tariffs charged by India and several other nations on American products. Addressing the media on Monday, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized that these tariffs significantly disadvantage American businesses and workers.
Tariff Barriers Severely Impacting US Businesses
Holding up a chart during her briefing, Leavitt demonstrated the substantial tariff rates imposed by various nations, including India's notable 100% tariff on American agricultural products. Additionally, she pointed to other examples, such as the European Union's 50% tariff on American dairy, Japan's staggering 700% tariff on American rice, and Canada's nearly 300% tariff on American butter and cheese."Unfortunately, these countries have been ripping off our nation for far too long, and they've made, I think, their disdain for the American workers quite clear," Leavitt asserted.
She added that these prohibitive levies had caused significant losses for American businesses and employment over recent decades.
Reciprocal Tariffs Scheduled for Announcement by Trump
Without providing detailed specifics, Leavitt mentioned that President Trump intends to announce reciprocal tariffs on Wednesday, April 2. Describing the upcoming tariffs as a "historic change," she stressed that this action would bring fairness and reciprocity into international trade.Earlier this month, Trump characterized the currently imposed US tariffs as "temporary" and "small," indicating that the new reciprocal tariffs would represent a "big game-changer" for the United States.
Trump's Team Preparing Groundwork for Tariff Changes
According to Leavitt, President Trump has assembled a "brilliant team of trade advisors," including prominent figures such as:- Howard Lutnick, US Secretary of Commerce
- Scott Bessent, Secretary of the Treasury
- Jamieson Greer, US Trade Representative
- Peter Navarro, White House aide
- Kevin Hassett, National Economic Council Director
- J D Vance, Vice President and key participant in trade discussions
Highlighting the administration's goal, she concluded, "It's certainly going to be ensured that there's reciprocity and the American people are treated fairly."
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