Trump’s New Tariffs Spark Global Alarm—Nations Push Back, Markets Plunge
By NIGPOST Reporter
The world is reacting with shock and caution as U.S. President Donald Trump dropped a tariff bombshell that’s rattling markets and governments alike.
On what he called “Liberation Day,” Trump unleashed sweeping tariffs that hit almost every major trade partner—including close allies like the EU, China, and Japan—with new levies of up to 54 percent.
The surprise move sparked fears of a full-blown trade war, plunging global stock markets into red zones and sending safe haven gold prices soaring to record highs.
But while the tariffs triggered anger, they also opened the door to urgent diplomacy. China demanded an immediate reversal and promised to retaliate, yet it kept lines of communication open.
The European Union, despite threatening countermeasures—like taxing U.S. tech giants—signaled willingness to negotiate.
“Unjustified tariffs inevitably backfire,” warned EU trade chief Maros Sefcovic on X. “We’ll act with calm and unity, but we won’t stand still if a fair deal isn’t reached.”
Markets React: Panic on Wall Street and Beyond
The economic impact was immediate. U.S. tech stocks took a heavy beating, with Apple falling over 8%, Amazon dropping nearly 7%, and Nvidia losing close to 5%. In Asia, Tokyo’s Nikkei fell almost 3%, while Vietnam’s market tumbled over 7% after being hit with one of the harshest tariffs—46%.
Europe didn’t escape either. France’s stock market dropped 3% as the EU braced for a potential economic fight.
The S&P 500, a key U.S. market index, was down 3.8% within the first 35 minutes of trading. Analysts called it a “historic transformation” of the global trade order.
Tariff Breakdown: Who Got Hit Hardest?
Trump’s tariff rollout includes:
China: Up to 54% tariff on goods
EU: 20%
Japan: 24%
Global baseline: 10% (starting April 5)
Extra tariffs on foreign cars: 25%
Exemptions: Russia (due to existing sanctions), and specific goods like copper, gold, semiconductors, and pharmaceuticals
Interestingly, Canada and Mexico were spared, as Trump had already imposed separate penalties on them over immigration and drug trafficking issues.
World Leaders Speak Out
Reactions from world leaders poured in:
France: PM Francois Bayrou called the move a “catastrophe” for the global economy—and the U.S. itself.
Germany: Chancellor Olaf Scholz labeled it “fundamentally wrong” but kept the door open for talks.
Australia: PM Anthony Albanese said the tariffs were “not the act of a friend” but chose not to retaliate—yet.
What’s Next?
Despite global backlash, the White House insists there’s no room for negotiations. Trump claims the tariffs are “reciprocal,” but many economists say his figures on foreign tariffs are exaggerated.
Meanwhile, U.S. business groups warn of job losses and rising costs. Stellantis, the parent company of Jeep and Fiat, announced it would pause some production in Canada and Mexico due to the expected disruption.
The coming days will be crucial. With some tariffs set to take effect April 5 and others on April 9, the world is watching to see whether this crisis spirals into an economic standoff—or a new round of trade talks.
What are your thoughts on Trump’s new tariffs? Share your opinion in the comments below.
And don’t forget to follow NIGPOST for the latest updates on this global trade war story.
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