High-profile business leaders criticize new tariffs as potential global economic repercussions loom.
US President
Donald Trump faces increasing opposition from influential business figures regarding his tariff policies, which have contributed to volatility in the global economy.
Prominent supporters of Trump's administration, including well-known billionaires, are speaking out against recent tariff measures, heightening concerns among corporate leaders.
A new wave of tariffs set to take effect, including a 20% tariff on imports from the European Union and over 40% tariffs on textiles from Asian countries such as Vietnam and Cambodia, is raising alarms about its potential impact on US consumers and manufacturers.
Bill Ackman, a billionaire fund manager who previously supported Trump, recently expressed serious doubts about the President's approach.
Using the social media platform X, he described the tariffs as akin to a "nuclear war against every country in the world" and cautioned that they are excessively inflated.
Ackman urged the President to reconsider these policies, warning of significant risks stemming from flawed economic reasoning.
Jamie Dimon, the CEO of JPMorgan Chase, the largest bank in the US, has also voiced concerns, indicating that the tariffs may contribute to declining corporate profits and increased costs for American consumers.
In his annual letter to shareholders, Dimon outlined apprehensions regarding the long-term effects these tariffs could have on US economic alliances.
Further complicating the situation is the stance of
Elon Musk, a prominent advisor to the President, who appears to be distancing himself from Trump’s tariff rhetoric.
Musk has advocated for the creation of a free trade zone between North America and the European Union while promoting free market principles, which contrast with the current tariff policies.
Despite the escalating dissent, Trump remains steadfast in his approach, intensifying his criticism, particularly directed at China.
He has threatened to impose tariffs exceeding 100% on specific imports, effectively doubling the previously announced rates.
Business leaders and economists have called for a halt to these tariff measures to facilitate negotiations and restore market stability; however, Trump's administration has dismissed these suggestions.
During a recent joint appearance with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House, Trump stated, "We are not looking at that."
The President claims that several of the nations affected by the tariffs are initiating contact to negotiate, alleging that they are offering concessions not previously requested.
He continues to assert that these tariffs are a pathway to enhancing the wealth of the United States, framing his economic policies as a means to achieve national prosperity.