The Trump administration’s trade policies have ignited global concerns, with high tariffs impacting international trade relations. From targeting China, Canada, and Mexico to imposing tariffs on European wine and auto imports, Trump’s trade war has reshaped global commerce.
Contents
Key Events in Donald Trump’s Trade War
January 20:
- Shortly after assuming office, President Donald Trump announced plans to impose tariffs and taxes on foreign countries to benefit American citizens.
- He declared an immediate 25% tariff on Canada and Mexico, hinting at further action against China.
January 26:
- Colombian President Gustavo Petro rejected two US military aircraft over immigration issues.
- In retaliation, Trump threatened 25% tariffs on Colombian imports, prompting Colombia to impose reciprocal tariffs, later reversed.
February 1:
- Trump signed an executive order levying 10% tariffs on Chinese goods and 25% tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada.
- In response, all three nations announced countermeasures against US products.
February 3:
- Trump temporarily paused tariffs on Mexico and Canada for 30 days after diplomatic negotiations.
February 4:
- The 10% tariff on Chinese imports took effect.
- China retaliated with new tariffs on US goods and an anti-monopoly investigation into Google.
February 10:
- Trump increased tariffs on steel and aluminum to 25%, removing exemptions from 2018.
February 13:
- Trump announced reciprocal tariffs, aligning US import duties with those imposed by its trade partners.
- Countries like India, Canada, and Mexico faced potential tariff hikes.
- A 25% tariff on European imports was proposed.
February 25:
- Trump instructed the Commerce Department to review copper import tariffs, citing national security concerns.
March 1:
- Trump ordered a review of lumber and timber tariffs, emphasizing their role in construction and defense industries.
March 4:
- Tariffs on Canadian and Mexican imports took effect, while Chinese import duties doubled to 20%.
- Canada and Mexico announced retaliatory tariffs worth $100 billion.
- China imposed 15% tariffs on US farm exports.
March 5:
- Trump granted a one-month exemption for Mexico and Canada, benefiting US automakers.
March 10:
- In response to 20% tariffs on Chinese goods, China imposed an additional 15% tariff on US agricultural products.
March 12:
- Trump enforced a 25% tariff on steel and aluminum imports.
- The European Union retaliated with tariffs on steel, textiles, motorcycles, bourbon, peanut butter, and jeans.
March 13:
- Trump threatened a 200% tariff on European wine, champagne, and spirits if the EU imposed a 50% tariff on American whiskey.
March 24:
- A 25% tariff on countries importing Venezuelan oil or gas was introduced, impacting major importers like China.
March 26:
- Trump imposed a 25% tariff on auto imports to boost US manufacturing.
- Automakers raised concerns over supply chain disruptions and increased production costs.
Conclusion
Donald Trump’s aggressive tariff policies have significantly altered global trade dynamics. From targeting key trading partners to influencing the automobile and agricultural sectors, the ongoing trade war continues to shape economic policies worldwide.
