USA rise tariffs on steel and aluminum; Trump’s decision causes global reactions

The United States raised tariffs on steel and aluminum imports to 25%, ending the previously granted tariff exemptions. The measure was officialized by President Donald Trump on Monday, 10.

The decision caused negative reactions from several countries, including traditional US allies, which consider protectionist policy and detrimental to global trade.

Canada, one of the main exporters of steel and aluminum for the US, criticized the initiative. Innovation Minister François-Philippe Champagne classified tariffs as “totally unjustified” and reaffirmed the Canadian government’s commitment to protect their industries and workers.

According to Champagne, Canada will adopt strategies to mitigate the economic impacts of the measures.

Australia, in turn, seeks to obtain an exemption from tariffs. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said he has already dialted directly with Trump, presenting arguments in defense of the Australian case. Albanese said the US president indicated that a possible exclusion is still under analysis.

In India, the government led by Narendra Modi intends to announce tariff cuts in specific sectors.

The measure is seen as an attempt to improve US products access to the Indian market, avoiding a climb of commercial tensions before a bilateral meeting scheduled for this week.

The European Union (EU) also reacted contrary to the US decision. The European Commission issued a statement classifying tariffs as “unjustified” and promised to adopt measures to protect their companies, workers and consumers.

Brussels warned that new rates can raise inflation in the United States and cause imbalances in the integration of global markets.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said the EU is prepared to retaliate, recalling similar measures adopted in 2018.

Barrot pointed out that European countries need to maintain a firm and unified posture in defense of their commercial interests.

Germany is also following the developments. Deputy Chancellor Robert Habeck pointed out that a prolonged tariff conflict may harm all parties involved.

Haback defended a cohesive response from Europe to protect the industrial sector and prevent long -term economic damage.

In Hong Kong, the chief secretary of administration, Chan Kwok-Ki, criticized fares for violating principles of the World Trade Organization (WTO).

Chan stressed that US tariff policy can generate instability in financial and commercial markets, as well as confusing investors and entrepreneurs.

Tariffs are interpreted as an attempt by Trump to strengthen the American metallurgical industry in a campaign context. However, the negative reaction of allied countries and business partners highlights the risk of new commercial disputes.

Experts point out that the impact of this measure can influence the dynamics of global trade and expand inflationary pressure in various economies.

The Brazilian government, for now, did not officially comment on the decision. Behind the scenes of the Ministry of Development, Industry, Commerce and Services (MDIC), technicians are analyzing the possible economic impacts and considering any reciprocity measures.

Brazil, which exports steel to the US market, can be affected by raising tariffs and seeks ways to minimize consequences in the metallurgical sector.

The increase in tariffs occurs in a scenario of growing economic competition between large powers. Steel and aluminum export countries evaluate strategies to protect their production chains and ensure access to strategic markets.

International analysts warn that commercial tensions may intensify if affected governments decide to adopt contracted.

President Trump defended the decision as part of his national industry protection policy. According to the US government, the measure aims to reduce the dependence on imports in strategic sectors and preserve jobs in the metallurgical industry.

However, global leaders argue that American protectionism can weaken multilateral trade relations, compromising established agreements.

The next steps include diplomatic meetings and negotiations between the countries involved. International governments and organizations closely follow the developments, while the private sector prepares to adjust operations and commercial contracts in response to the new American tariff policy.