Trump’s Steel, Aluminum Tariffs Take Effect: Global Reactions Pour In

New Delhi : The United States has officially imposed a 25% tariff on all steel and aluminum imports, a move that is expected to have wide-ranging economic implications. While U.S. President Donald Trump has defended the measure as a means to boost domestic manufacturing and create factory jobs, several countries have voiced their concerns and announced countermeasures.

India Downplays Impact

India, one of the world’s largest steel producers, has maintained a cautious stance on the tariffs. Speaking at an industry event, Steel Secretary Sandeep Poundrik minimized the impact on the domestic sector, stating that India's steel exports to the U.S. are minimal compared to its total production.

“The U.S. tariffs won’t have much impact on India’s steel industry as our domestic market is strong, and only a small quantity is exported to the U.S.,” Poundrik said. He noted that India exported less than 100,000 metric tonnes of steel to the U.S. in 2024, a fraction of its total production of 145 million tonnes.

European Union Announces Retaliatory Measures

The European Union swiftly responded to the tariffs, announcing countermeasures set to take effect on April 1. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated that the EU would impose tariffs worth €26 billion ($28 billion) on U.S. goods in retaliation.

“As the U.S. applies tariffs worth $28 billion, we are responding with proportional countermeasures,” von der Leyen said.

Products targeted by the EU tariffs include textiles, leather goods, home appliances, plastic products, and agricultural goods such as poultry, beef, seafood, nuts, eggs, sugar, and vegetables. Despite the strong response, the European Commission reiterated its willingness to negotiate.

UK Labels Move ‘Disappointing’

The UK government called the U.S. tariffs on steel and aluminum “disappointing” but stopped short of announcing immediate countermeasures. Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds stated that the UK would continue engaging with the U.S. to protect British business interests.

However, the UK’s steel industry body termed the move a “devastating blow,” adding pressure on the government to take retaliatory action.

Australia Criticizes, but No Retaliation Planned

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the tariffs as “unjustified” but confirmed that his government would not retaliate with countermeasures. His remarks came hours before the tariffs took effect.

Notably, Trump had previously suggested in February that he was considering a tariff exemption for Australia, citing its long-standing trade deficit with the U.S. However, no official exemption has been announced.

Global Trade Tensions Escalate

The tariffs are expected to further strain global trade relations, with analysts warning of potential repercussions for supply chains and economic growth. The World Trade Organization (WTO) has yet to issue a formal statement but is expected to review complaints from affected nations in the coming weeks.

As the situation unfolds, global markets will be closely watching for further retaliatory measures and potential negotiations between the U.S. and its trade partners.