Australian PM – Trump talk Set to Address Tariff Concerns
US President Donald Trump confirmed Tuesday he plans to speak with Australia’s prime minister regarding trade issues that have become a contentious point between the two longstanding allies. “They are calling and I will be talking to him, yes,” Trump told reporters before boarding a flight in Washington when asked about potential discussions with the Australian leader. The Australian PM – Trump talk comes at a critical time as Australia faces an election this weekend and grapples with recently imposed US tariffs.
Tariff Impact Strains Diplomatic Relations
Australia has failed to secure exemptions from the Trump administration’s sweeping tariff regime despite consistent efforts. The tariffs include:
- 10% minimum duty on almost all imports
- 25% tariffs on specific products including steel and aluminum
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese previously called the decision “entirely unjustified” and contrary to the “spirit of our two nations’ enduring friendship” after earlier hopes for an exemption were dashed.
Election Campaign Pressure Mounts
The opposition has repeatedly criticized Albanese for not making stronger direct appeals to Trump regarding the tariffs. The Australian PM – Trump talk potential has become a significant issue in Australia’s election campaign.
Albanese downplayed Trump’s comments, calling them a “lighthearted throwaway comment from the president.”
“I assure you, I’m not staying up at night trying to ring anyone at the moment. I’m in an election campaign,” he told ABC Radio Melbourne.
US Commerce Secretary Hints at Progress
Earlier Tuesday, US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick revealed a deal had been reached with one trading partner, though he declined to identify which country.
“I have a deal done,” Lutnick told CNBC. “But I need to wait for their prime minister and their parliament to give its approval, which I expect shortly.”
Many analysts speculate whether the forthcoming Australian PM – Trump talk might indicate Australia is the unnamed country securing concessions.
Historical Alliance Faces New Test
Australia has maintained a trade deficit with the US for years, adding to Canberra’s frustration over being included in the tariff regime alongside countries with trade surpluses against America.
Trump had initially told Albanese he would consider exempting Australia from metal tariffs back in February. However, White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt later confirmed: “He considered it, and considered against it. There will be no exemptions.”
Source
ABC – Donald Trump says Australia has been calling about tariffs and he will talk to prime minister
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