The countdown to Liberation Day is nearly over, and even Trump’s top advisors are in the dark. April 2nd is set to bring one of the largest trade war escalations in history, yet no one—not even those inside the White House—knows the full extent of what’s coming. Markets are in turmoil, businesses are bracing for impact, and foreign leaders are preparing for retaliation. It’s chaos behind closed doors.
Conflicting reports only add to the uncertainty. Politico claims the tariffs will be smaller than expected. The Washington Post insists they’ll be much bigger. What’s clear is that Trump is about to unleash a sweeping wave of trade barriers, possibly impacting over $1.5 trillion in imports. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent outlined a plan to target the worst U.S. trading partners, but Trump has floated even harsher measures—including universal tariffs that could shake the global economy.
The numbers are staggering. 25% tariffs on all auto imports go into effect this week. Steel, aluminum, and Mexican goods already face heavy duties. Canada has hit back with $21 billion in counter-tariffs. China, the EU, and Mexico are ready to retaliate. On April 3rd, Mexico’s president is expected to announce counter-tariffs that could further escalate tensions.
Trump believes these tariffs will bring trillions in new revenue and restore American jobs. He also regrets not going further in his first term and now sees this as his chance to correct that mistake. His inner circle, however, remains divided, unsure whether this will be a historic economic victory or a disaster in the making.
With Liberation Day just hours away, the only certainty is uncertainty. The world is watching. The markets are waiting. And inside the White House, no one knows what Trump will do next.
Sources:
https://archive.is/G63fl#selection-1087.0-1137.137
https://www.yahoo.com/news/trump-pushes-aides-bigger-tariffs-021223088.html