On Wednesday, President Donald Trump introduced a broad set of baseline tariffs on all foreign nations, along with what he referred to as “kind reciprocal” tariffs targeting countries he claimed were the most unfair in trade relations with the United States.
Speaking from the White House Rose Garden, Trump called the move a historic step toward economic independence. “My fellow Americans, this is Liberation Day,” he declared, arguing that the tariffs would reduce U.S. reliance on imported goods.
Trump asserted that foreign nations had taken advantage of the U.S. economy for years, stating, “Our country has been looted, pillaged, raped, plundered.” He went on to say that April 2, 2025, would be remembered as the day American industry was revived and economic prosperity was restored.
The new tariff measures include a standard 10% levy on all imports, with additional targeted tariffs on specific countries, such as China, the European Union, and Taiwan. Trump claimed these tariffs were a response to unfair trade practices, explaining, “We will charge them about half of what they have been charging us—because we are being very kind.”
During the event, Trump presented a chart outlining the new tariff rates, with China at the top of the list. He announced a 34% tariff on Chinese goods, citing the country’s 67% tariffs on U.S. products as justification. Copies of the full tariff list were distributed to attendees at the event.
According to White House officials, the 10% baseline tariff will take effect on April 5, while the “kind reciprocal” tariffs will be implemented at 12:01 a.m. on April 9, impacting approximately 60 countries.
Trump framed trade deficits as a major national crisis, saying they pose not only economic risks but also a threat to national security and the American way of life. “This is not just an economic problem. This is a national emergency,” he emphasized.
The administration had deliberated on several options before finalizing the tariff plan, with proposals ranging from a universal 20% tariff to a system that varied by country. The newly announced measures build on existing tariffs imposed during Trump’s presidency, including levies on steel, aluminum, and goods from key trade partners like Canada, Mexico, and China.
The decision has already strained relations with Canada and Mexico. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney recently suggested that economic and security ties between the two nations may be irreparably damaged. Canada has vowed to introduce retaliatory tariffs, while Mexico plans to announce its response in the coming days. The European Union has also indicated that it is preparing countermeasures.
Despite potential economic risks, Trump and his administration argue that these tariffs will ultimately benefit the country. “For decades, we have been taken advantage of by nations both near and far, friends and foes alike,” he said.
The economy played a decisive role in the 2024 presidential election, with many voters blaming former President Joe Biden for inflation and high living costs. Trump campaigned on promises to revive domestic industry and lower costs for American families.
His administration insists that the tariffs will create jobs, boost manufacturing, and increase government revenue, even if they cause short-term economic disruption. “Factories and jobs will return to our country. We will supercharge American industry,” Trump said. “More production at home means stronger competition and lower prices for consumers.”
However, many economists caution that American consumers will likely bear the initial costs of these trade policies. Public sentiment on the tariffs remains uncertain, with polls indicating that many Americans are skeptical of Trump’s handling of the economy.
A recent survey by the Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research found that 58% of Americans disapprove of Trump’s economic policies, with 60% specifically opposing his trade strategies. Even among Republicans, trade policy was one of his weakest polling issues.
Despite the controversy, Republican lawmakers have largely backed the president, expressing confidence in his approach but acknowledging potential short-term instability. “It may be rocky in the beginning, but I think this will ultimately benefit all Americans,” said House Speaker Mike Johnson.
Meanwhile, Democrats are fiercely opposing the tariffs, with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer calling them one of Trump’s most damaging decisions. Democratic lawmakers are working to limit Trump’s authority to impose levies, particularly on Canada, through legislative measures.
With global markets already reacting and trade partners preparing retaliatory measures, the full impact of Trump’s tariffs remains to be seen.