WASHINGTON, May 23: President Donald Trump on Friday, intensified his trade war rhetoric by threatening a 50% tariff on all imports from the European Union and a 25% tariff on Apple products unless iPhones are manufactured in the United States.
The threats, issued via Truth Social, reflect Trump’s growing frustration with stalled trade negotiations and his push to revive domestic manufacturing—a central theme of his political platform.
Trump criticized the EU for pushing to eliminate tariffs entirely, while he insists on maintaining a baseline 10% tax on most imports.
Frustrated by the lack of progress, he announced that the 50% tariff would begin on June 1, 2025, unless goods are made in America. “Our discussions with them are going nowhere!” he wrote.
Apple, which has begun shifting iPhone production to India in response to earlier tariffs on China, was specifically singled out.
Trump claimed he had previously told Apple CEO Tim Cook that iPhones sold in the U.S. should be made domestically. If not, a 25% tariff would apply.
The move places Apple among other major corporations like Amazon and Walmart, already affected by trade-related uncertainty and inflationary pressures.
Trump’s tariff strategy, which he has used to exert pressure on global trade partners, has so far fallen short of delivering the comprehensive trade deals or manufacturing boom he promised.
His latest comments suggest a renewed effort to push those goals through aggressive tariff policies.
Markets reacted swiftly to the announcement, with U.S. stock futures declining, highlighting the global economic risks of Trump’s protectionist stance.
Critics warn such measures could fuel inflation and disrupt global supply chains, while supporters argue they are necessary to protect American industry.
As 2025 approaches, Trump’s tariff threats may reshape trade dynamics once again, with significant implications for businesses and consumers alike. (AP)
