Trump Vows 100% Tariffs on Countries Abandoning US Dollar, Raising Economic and Geopolitical Stakes
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Mazhar
Staff Writer
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Former US President Donald Trump declared plans to levy 100% tariffs on countries that abandon the US dollar, intending to preserve the currency's place as the world's reserve. Trump chastised countries such as China, India, Brazil, Russia, and South Africa for considering alternatives to the dollar, claiming that the currency has been under siege for eight years. The planned tariffs might cause global trade disruptions, exacerbate geopolitical tensions, and potentially harm the US economy by hastening de-dollarization trends. Trump's reiterated vow reflects his anxiety about the dollar's declining supremacy, which still accounted for 59% of official foreign exchange reserves in early 2024. This share has been dropping as countries attempt to lessen their reliance on the US economy and prevent potential vulnerabilities caused by dollar-denominated loans and sanctions. Imposing 100% tariffs would severely disrupt trade relations, especially with major economic players and US trading partners. This plan could result in retaliatory tariffs, new trade conflicts, and higher expenses for US firms and consumers. Furthermore, it may encourage impacted countries to strengthen economic relations with other blocs, such as the BRICS, where de-dollarization talks are already ongoing. While Trump's strategy is to strengthen the currency, analysts warn of potential negative consequences for the US economy. Higher tariffs might boost import prices, harming American consumers and businesses that rely on foreign goods. Furthermore, rising trade tensions may weaken the appeal of the US market, prompting foreign investors and trading partners to seek alternate economic alliances. Countries targeted by Trump's tariff proposal are likely to step up their efforts to establish alternative financial systems, lessen reliance on the dollar, and investigate other reserve currencies. The tariff threat may expedite the global transition away from the dollar, jeopardizing its long-term significance in the global economy. Trump's tough tariff proposal highlights the mounting challenges to the dollar's supremacy, but it also carries considerable risks. The economic and geopolitical implications of this policy might exacerbate global volatility and potentially weaken the currency Trump seeks to preserve. The changing landscape of international banking will put the US dollar to the test as de-dollarization attempts ramp up around the world.
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About Mazhar
Mazhar is a seasoned journalist covering global politics.