Trump’s 10% Base Tariff Officially Takes Effect at U.S. Ports

In Brief:

A 10% tariff on all imported goods into the U.S. is now active.

Reciprocal tariffs from affected countries are expected to follow next week.

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At 12:01 a.m. U.S. local time on April 6, former President Donald Trump’s sweeping 10% base tariff officially took effect, marking one of the most significant overhauls of U.S. trade policy in decades. The new tariff applies to all imported goods, regardless of origin, and has now been implemented across ports, airports, and customs facilities nationwide.

The policy abandons the longstanding multilateral tariff framework established after World War II, replacing it with a universal base tariff model. Reciprocal tariffs from major trade partners are anticipated by next Wednesday, likely to intensify global trade tensions.

“This is the biggest trade action of our lifetime,” said Kelly Anne Shaw, former White House trade advisor. She added that while the tariff may evolve through future negotiations, it fundamentally redefines America’s trade stance with the world.

The policy is expected to significantly impact global supply chains, pricing, and international relations, with analysts warning of potential inflationary effects and retaliatory measures from foreign governments.

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