In a bold move on 2 April 2025, President Donald Trump announced a sweeping 10% tariff on all imports to the United States, including Australian goods, as part of his Liberation Day initiative aimed at overhauling the global trading system.
For American consumers, these tariffs are expected to lead to higher prices on a wide range of imported goods, from electronics to everyday household items. Economists estimate that these tariffs could raise approximately $700 billion annually in customs duties, potentially increasing consumer prices by 2.5% and pushing inflation above 4% by the end of the year.
Australian exporters are also feeling the impact, with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese criticising the tariffs as "unjustified" and "not the act of a friend." The Australian government is responding by strengthening anti-dumping laws, investing $50 million to help affected industries find new markets, and offering $1 billion in zero-interest loans to boost export resilience
While the administration argues that these tariffs will revitalise American industry and reduce national debt, critics warn of the potential for increased inflation and economic hardship for consumers. As the global trade landscape shifts, the question remains: will these tariffs make America great again, or will they lead to economic challenges for the American population.
At Recruit19, we follow the economy closely and work with our clients and candidates across the freight forwarding, supply chain, logistics, importer/exporter and shipping industries to manage recruitment needs during uncertain times. We are currently supporting businesses with experienced export managers, operators, and other skilled professionals ready to help navigate the challenges of global trade. We continue to offer all our clients a realistic flat-fee structure, ensuring transparency and value across every hire.