World leaders react to Trump's steel and aluminum import tariff

Following President Donald Trump’s executive order imposing a 25% tariff on aluminum and steel imported into the United States, world leaders are reacting to the Republican’s decision, which will come into effect on March 12.

Sefcovic concluded that the tax would result in a bilateral loss, but that the EU remains committed to seeking a positive agreement for both parties.

The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, said that “the European Union will not let the US government’s decision to impose import tariffs on European steel go unanswered.”

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said that Canada must highlight the negative impact of the tariffs on metals from the United States and, in addition, must offer a firm and clear response. “Canadians will stand up strongly and firmly if necessary,” Trudeau added.

The acting president of South Korea, Choi Sang-mok, said that the government should seek negotiations with the US on the tariffs to reflect the country’s business interests. South Korean Trade Minister Cheong In-kyo said Trump’s move would reduce demand for U.S. steel, eroding the profitability of steel exporters, but the tariffs would provide opportunities for Korean companies to find new export markets.

“If the EU becomes a target of U.S. tariffs, as is already the case with steel and aluminum, we will be more dependent on European solidarity than any other country,” German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said, noting that Germany is the largest exporter.

Trump’s tariff initiative is part of his campaign’s ideology of “making America great again,” thus favoring American companies against international competition.

"Our nation needs steel and aluminum to be produced in the United States, not in foreign lands," the Republican declared.

Source: https://www.band.uol.com.br/bandnews-fm/noticias/lideres-mundiais-reagem-a-implementacao-de-tarifa-sobre-metais-decretada-por-trump-202502111817