Trump’s Trade Barriers Report: New Tariff Threats Loom on Global Goods Trade

President Trump is set to unveil global tariffs aimed at addressing unfair trade practices and ensuring competitiveness for American exporters. This follows the Office of the United States Trade Representative’s comprehensive report outlining significant barriers faced by U.S. exports. Key targets of these tariffs may include China, which the report criticizes for its aggressive industrial policies and failure to uphold trade commitments made during Trump’s first term.

Canada faces scrutiny over its supply-management systems in dairy and poultry that restrict U.S. market access, alongside a digital service tax viewed as discriminatory against American firms. The European Union is also in the crosshairs, as the U.S. points to persistent regulatory barriers affecting trade, particularly in agriculture, tech, and environmental measures.

India stands out for its high tariffs, averaging 50% on select imports, which hamper U.S. businesses. Meanwhile, Japan, although less restrictive overall, enforces substantial barriers in specific sectors like automotive and seafood. Mexico’s ever-changing regulations impact pharmaceutical imports and introduce hurdles for U.S. energy companies. Lastly, South Korea’s restrictions on various goods and Vietnam’s limitations on imports and investment create additional challenges for American exporters.

As these trade disputes escalate, American businesses brace for the potential impacts of new tariffs.