UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is “disheartened” by the tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump that came into effect on Thursday, his deputy spokesperson Farhan Haq said.
Guterres, who has repeatedly warned against trade wars, believes they are “ruinous” and should be avoided, Haq told reporters.
“This is disheartening news,” he said, adding that the Secretary-General is especially concerned about the disproportionate impact such measures will have on the poor.
“He wants to ensure that governments understand the need to protect the poorest and most vulnerable sectors of society, who will suffer due to higher prices,” Haq said.
A 25% tariff on most imports from India came into force on Thursday, with an additional 25% set to be imposed in the coming days — a punitive response to India’s continued purchase of Russian oil, according to the US administration.
An executive order issued by Trump outlines steep tariff hikes affecting a wide range of developing countries. Three nations — including Myanmar and Laos — will face tariffs over 35%. Eight countries are set to face tariffs above 25%, while ten will face duties over 18%. As many as 32 countries will see 15% tariffs.
Brazil, initially listed for a 10% tariff, has been slapped with an additional 40% punitive duty linked to a domestic political dispute.
India has termed the US move “extremely unfortunate” and questioned the rationale for imposing additional tariffs “for actions that several other countries are also taking in their own national interest.
IANS