Beijing expressed anger and warned of countermeasures, while European leaders said the levies could have a major impact on the world’s economy.
Topline
Leaders and government officials around the world sharply criticized President Donald Trump’s decision to impose sweeping “reciprocal tariffs,”—which the president claimed was a response to trade barriers placed on U.S. exports—and warned that the escalating global trade war could have dire consequences on the global economy.Key Facts
China’s commerce ministry (MOFCOM) said it “firmly opposes” the tariffs and warned of “resolute countermeasures to safeguard its own rights and interests,” without offering specifics.
Beijing, whose exports to the U.S. now face a 54% tariff, described the levies as “unilateral bullying” and warned there will be “no winner in a trade war.”
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said the measures will “directly affect millions of Canadians,” as he vowed to fight back with countermeasures, saying: “It’s essential to act with purpose and with force, and that’s what we will do.
