tariffs
Coverage of tariffs in the Nexus archive.
- Trump built walls out of tariffs on ‘Liberation Day’. Has the US been boxed in?
The article examines how changes to U.S. trade policy under President Trump have affected the international economic order, particularly in the context of the U.S.-China relationship as the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary. Trump's tariffs on 'Liberation Day' are highlighted as a key shift in Washington's approach to global trade.
- Roundup: Fed report / Air taxis / $7B healthcare acquisition
The Federal Reserve reported persistent inflation above its 2% target, driven by tariffs and other factors, while the economy remains resilient. Beta Technologies is advancing in the eVTOL air taxi initiative with government projects, and Warburg Pincus is acquiring Pantherx Rare, a specialty pharmacy company, for over $7 billion.
- US jobless claims dip modestly to 215,000 last week as layoffs remain at historically healthy levels
US jobless claims decreased to 215,000 in the week ending July 4, remaining within a historically stable range. The June jobs report showed slower hiring with 57,000 jobs added, and the unemployment rate fell to 4.2% as some job seekers exited the labor market. Companies like Verizon, UPS, Amazon, Disney, Starbucks, Walmart, and Microsoft have recently reduced their workforces.
- EU considers tariffs on imports from illegal Israeli settlements
The European Commission is proposing measures to reduce imports from Israeli settlements in the West Bank, including tariffs, licensing systems, or bans. The proposals follow a request by EU diplomat Kaja Kallas, though member states like Czechia have threatened to veto broader sanctions. Israel's October election and concerns about unmonitored settlement goods are highlighted.
- Foreign investors look past US uncertainty to long-term opportunity
Overseas companies are expanding in the United States despite challenges such as tariffs, labor shortages, and shifting policy that complicate investment plans.
- Toyota Pulls Tacoma Output From Mexico as Trump Tariffs Bite
Toyota is shifting production of its Tacoma pickup from Tijuana, Mexico, to the United States due to Trump's tariffs. President Sheinbaum countered by stating another carmaker will invest over $500m in Mexico.
- Trump takes credit for Toyota moving some truck production from Mexico to Texas: 'That's what tariffs do'
President Donald Trump attributed Toyota's $3.6 billion expansion of its Texas truck plant to his tariffs, which led to moving some production from Mexico. The expansion will create 2,000 jobs and double Toyota's Texas footprint by 2030 amid USMCA negotiations.
- Auto components sector clocks 12.7% growth; U.S. exports hold firm despite tariffs
The auto components sector experienced 12.7% growth, with U.S. exports maintaining strong performance despite ongoing tariffs.
- Trump calls Walmart ‘patriotic’ for cutting beef prices — in a stark change of tune
Trump praised Walmart as 'patriotic' for reducing beef prices, marking a shift from his previous criticism of the company's response to tariffs.
- Trump says Walmart cut prices at his request, but Walmart statement omits administration’s role
President Donald Trump claimed Walmart reduced prices at his administration’s request, but Walmart’s statement did not acknowledge government involvement. Trump attributed inflation to Democrats and tariffs, while Walmart cited seasonal factors for price cuts on items like ground beef and groceries.
- Trump says Walmart cut prices at his request, but Walmart statement omits administration's role
President Donald Trump claimed Walmart cut prices at his request, but the retailer's statement did not mention the administration. The price cuts include ground beef and other products, as Walmart benefits from inflation under Trump's tenure.
- Small businesses hired AI to save money. Now they're budgeting for its bad habits.
Small businesses are increasingly adopting AI for cost-saving and efficiency, with 58% using it in 2025 compared to 23% in 2023. While AI helped companies like Sparkles Homes and Flint Avenue Marketing reduce costs and automate tasks, it also caused unexpected expenses and awkward errors, such as AI-generated emails and over-apologetic phone responses. Small businesses are now budgeting more for AI, with median costs rising to $21 per employee in 2025.
- Two July Deadlines in Washington Will Test Peru’s Record Export Run
Two U.S. trade deadlines in July could impact Peru's export performance. A Section 232 critical-minerals negotiation report is due by July 13, with potential copper tariff additions, while a 10% tariff on most countries expires around July 24, leaving future actions uncertain.
- US, China trade dynamic stabilizes
The US and China are reducing tariffs on each other’s agricultural products, potentially increasing China’s soybean purchases from the US. The trade relationship has stabilized, shifting trade concerns to Europe’s struggle with Chinese exports.
- China signals openness to reducing gaping EU trade surplus as Brussels toughens stance
China indicated openness to reducing its large trade surplus with the European Union during talks in Brussels. Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao and EU trade chief Maros Sefcovic discussed potential purchase agreements for European goods and lowering tariffs on EU-made products.
- China and US Target Tariff Reductions on Agricultural Products
China and the US aim to reduce tariffs on agricultural products. Soybean futures in the US fell after President Donald Trump threatened additional tariffs on China and stated there was 'no reason' to meet with Chinese President Xi Jingping.
- Americans prepare for most expensive July 4 celebration ever
Rising food and gasoline prices, driven by tariffs and the war in Iran, are making the upcoming July 4 celebration the most expensive in the U.S. as the country marks its 250th birthday.
- Trump’s contradictions mangle a complex history of US trade
The article discusses how Trump's approach to tariffs reflects a misinterpretation of 250 years of U.S. trade history. It highlights contradictions in his policies regarding complex trade dynamics.
- Copper Traders Gear Up for Another Round of Tariff Turmoil
US President Donald Trump imposed 50% tariffs on copper imports, but exempted refined metals, which are central to international trading. Copper traders are preparing for the potential market disruptions caused by these tariffs.
- Best unintended consequence of Trump’s tariffs
The article discusses an unintended consequence of Trump’s tariffs, noting that they have led to an increase in consignment shopping. It highlights this outcome as a positive effect despite the tariffs' original intent.
- A former Fed colleague of Kevin Warsh on what to expect: ‘Plan for higher rates’
Kevin Warsh, the new Fed Chair, faces pressure to address inflation as former Fed official Esther George advises Americans to prepare for higher interest rates. The Fed held rates steady at 3.5%-3.75% amid persistent inflation above 4%, with nine FOMC members projecting rate hikes before year-end. Bank of America forecasts three quarter-point hikes this year, raising the benchmark rate to 4.25%-4.5%.
- Why Krugman Thinks We Need Chinese Auto Tariffs
The article discusses Paul Krugman's argument in favor of imposing tariffs on Chinese automobiles. It focuses on his reasoning for why such tariffs are necessary.
- The Latest: Trump says Iran violates ceasefire with drone strike on ship
U.S. President Donald Trump accused Iran of violating a ceasefire by striking a cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz with a drone, while also threatening 100% tariffs on nations taxing U.S. digital services. He commented on Venezuela's situation, claiming people are 'dancing in the streets' following a U.S. military mission, and criticized New York City's rent control policies as harmful.
- The Latest: Trump says Iran violates ceasefire with drone strike
Trump accused Iran of violating a ceasefire with a drone strike on a cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz, while also threatening 100% tariffs on nations taxing U.S. digital services. A man was charged in connection with a planned attack on Trump’s UFC event at the White House, and Trump criticized communism in a social media post.
- Trump is threatening 100% tariffs on any country with a digital services tax on U.S. tech companies
President Trump is threatening to impose 100% tariffs on any country implementing a digital services tax targeting U.S. tech companies. The policy would override existing trade agreements, with European nations identified as primary targets.
- Australia lost. Its ambassador still won.
Australia's ambassador to the U.S., Greg Moriarty, met key U.S. officials at a World Cup match in Seattle to build relationships and discuss trade issues, including a new tariff on countries with slave labor in supply chains. Moriarty emphasized strengthening U.S.-Australia ties in the Indo-Pacific region and highlighted cultural connections through sports.
- Chinese Copper Supplier Says US Demand Can Bear Trump’s Tariffs
A Chinese copper supplier asserts that US demand for copper can withstand tariffs imposed by former President Donald Trump. The supplier's statement suggests confidence in the resilience of US market demand despite potential trade barriers.
- Fears Labour is blowing another huge hole in defence budgets with tariffs meant to prop up UK steel industry
The article expresses concerns that Labour's use of tariffs to support the UK steel industry may create a significant deficit in defense budgets. Key points include fears of financial strain on defense spending linked to industrial policy decisions.
- Democratic senators press Trump to explain why tariffs are costing manufacturing jobs
Democratic senators Elizabeth Warren and Mark Kelly highlighted the loss of 108,000 U.S. manufacturing jobs during Trump's second term and are seeking explanations. They attribute the job decline to Trump's tariffs, which they argue are harming the manufacturing sector.
- Sens. Warren, Kelly press Trump administration on effects of tariffs on manufacturing
Sens. Warren and Kelly are questioning the Trump administration about the impact of tariffs on U.S. manufacturing. The senators seek clarification on how these tariffs are affecting the sector.
- Are India-US trade talks nearing ‘last-mile bargaining’ amid strained ties?
US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer's two-day visit to India aims to finalize a trade agreement after months of tariff disputes, though India's protected farm sector remains a key obstacle. The talks may focus on settling tariff rates and improving strained political ties related to trade, Indian workers, and the Strait of Hormuz.
- Asia & Pacific Intelligence Brief — Monday, June 22, 2026
China restricted key US firms, India advanced toward a first trade deal, and Washington considered new tariffs. The article highlights regional trade tensions and diplomatic developments.
- The world came to play. Southeast Asia came to sell.
U.S. trade policies under President Donald Trump have shifted manufacturing to Southeast Asia, with Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia becoming major producers of World Cup merchandise. Tariffs on China and rising labor costs there have driven increased U.S. imports from these countries, despite recent Supreme Court rulings and ongoing trade investigations. The U.S. still imports significant goods from China, including World Cup-related products.
- US launches Germany pharma pricing probe, raising threat of new tariffs
The United States has launched an investigation into Germany's pharmaceutical pricing policies, which could lead to new tariffs. The probe, under Section 301 trade authorities, examines whether Germany's practices underpay for innovative medicines and harm US commerce.
- Sleep Number is filing for bankruptcy and selling to Sleep Country Canada for $415 million
Sleep Number, a Minneapolis-based mattress maker, is filing for bankruptcy and selling to Sleep Country Canada for $415 million. The company cited tariffs and inflation as key factors in its financial collapse, entering Chapter 11 with $672 million in debt.
- Lula warns Trump against meddling in Brazil election after criticism of judiciary
President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva warned US President Donald Trump against interfering in Brazil's October presidential election following US criticism of judicial actions against Lula's political opponents. The warning comes amid rising tensions involving new US tariffs and the designation of drug-trafficking groups as foreign terrorist organisations.
- Macron deploys Versailles’ gold, mirrors and history in a high-stakes courtship of Trump
Macron hosts Trump at Versailles for a private reception and dinner to celebrate America's 250th birthday, aiming to strengthen their trans-Atlantic alliance amid disagreements on Iran, Ukraine, and tariffs. The event may prevent Trump from leaving the Group of Seven summit early, as he did previously.
- Macron deploys Versailles’ gold, mirrors and history in a high-stakes courtship of Trump
French President Emmanuel Macron is hosting U.S. President Donald Trump at the Palace of Versailles for a private event celebrating America’s 250th birthday, aiming to strengthen their personal relationship amid tensions over Iran, Ukraine, and tariffs. The event, intended to keep Trump engaged during the G7 summit, highlights Macron’s use of Versailles as a diplomatic tool to maintain trans-Atlantic ties.
- Macron deploys Versailles’ gold, mirrors and history in a high-stakes courtship of Trump
Macron hosts Trump at Versailles for a private event celebrating America's 250th birthday to maintain diplomatic ties amid disagreements on Iran, Ukraine, and tariffs. The event aims to use Versailles' historical grandeur as a diplomatic tool to keep Trump engaged during the Group of Seven summit.
- Brazilian court convicts Eduardo Bolsonaro of courting US interference
A Brazilian court convicted Eduardo Bolsonaro of courting US interference. The US imposed tariffs on Brazilian goods and sanctioned judicial officials involved in the trial of his father for a coup plot.