White House Promises ‘Big Tariffs’ On April 2
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The White House on Thursday vowed to impose “big tariffs” on April 2 when US President Donald Trump is to unveil reciprocal levies in a major escalation of his trade war.
Bessent’s remarks had suggested a possible delay in the activation of some duties.
But Leavitt told reporters that Trump has been “very clear about his intention for April 2.”
“And the president will be highlighting the unfair trade practices, the ways in which America has been ripped off by every country around the world, quite frankly.”
“There will be big tariffs that will be going into effect,” she added.
Trump has promised reciprocal duties on both US allies and competitors from April 2, although the exact details of this plan have yet to be released.
“We are going to go to them and say, look, here’s where we think the tariff levels are, non-tariff barriers, currency manipulation, unfair funding, labor suppression,” he added.
If countries stop their practices, Bessent said, “we will not put up the tariff wall.”
He also said at the time that some duties may not have to go on as a deal “is pre-negotiated,” or because countries swiftly approach Washington for talks.
AFP
