Trump Rejects Australia's 25% Tariff Exemption Request, Citing 'America First' Policy

U.S. President Donald Trump has rejected Australia's request for an exemption from the new 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum imports, set to take effect in the U.S. on the following day. This decision marks a shift from Trump's earlier indication that he would consider Australia's case for an exemption after a phone call with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. The White House press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, confirmed the decision, stating that Trump 'considered it and considered against it,' emphasizing an 'America First' approach to steel and aluminum. Leavitt suggested that Australia could consider moving its steel manufacturing to the U.S. if it wished to avoid the tariffs. Prime Minister Albanese expressed disappointment over the decision, describing it as 'entirely unjustified' and 'not a friendly act.' He emphasized that the move goes against the spirit of the long-standing friendship and economic partnership between the two nations. Albanese ruled out imposing reciprocal tariffs on the U.S., citing potential negative impacts on Australian consumers and inflation. The decision follows a series of criticisms from Australian figures towards Trump. Former Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, who had previously secured a tariff exemption during Trump's first term, had called Trump's leadership chaotic and a gift to China's Xi Jinping. Turnbull also labeled Trump as a 'bully' with a 'huge ego,' escalating tensions between the two leaders. The opposition in Australia has criticized Albanese for failing to secure the tariff exemption, suggesting that face-to-face meetings with Trump could have been more effective. Despite ongoing discussions with the U.S., the Australian government remains committed to advocating for a carve-out, though the prospects appear dim.